Lorenzo de Medici

Lorenzo de' Medici, son of Piero the Gouty and Lucrezia Tornabuoni, is born in Florence. He inherits the Medici family's wealth and political influence.

Lorenzo begins his formal education, studying under prominent humanists like Cristoforo Landino and Gentile Becchi. His education emphasizes classical literature, philosophy, and rhetoric.

Upon his father Piero's death, Lorenzo assumes leadership of the Medici family and the Florentine state, becoming the de facto ruler of Florence.

Lorenzo begins his patronage of the arts, supporting artists like Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. He commissions numerous works and promotes the Renaissance in Florence.

Lorenzo marries Clarice Orsini, a noblewoman from Rome, solidifying a political alliance and strengthening his position in Italian politics.

Lorenzo narrowly escapes assassination during the Pazzi Conspiracy, a plot by the Pazzi family and their allies to overthrow the Medici. His brother Giuliano is killed.

Lorenzo negotiates a peace treaty with Pope Sixtus IV, ending the conflict between the Medici and the Papacy. His diplomatic skills help stabilize Florence's position in Italy.

Lorenzo founds the Platonic Academy in Florence, promoting the study of Neoplatonism and fostering intellectual and cultural exchange among scholars and artists.

Lorenzo publishes his first collection of poetry, showcasing his talent as a poet and contributing to the cultural renaissance in Florence.

Lorenzo de' Medici, known as 'Lorenzo the Magnificent,' dies in Careggi, near Florence, leaving a legacy as a great statesman, patron of the arts, and cultural leader.