Lorenzo de' Medici

Full Name: Lorenzo di Piero de' Medici, known as Lorenzo the Magnificent
Profession: Banker and Lord of Florence

Nationality:

Biography: Lorenzo de' Medici was an Italian statesman and banker who served as the de facto ruler of the Florentine Republic for most of his life. He has earned lasting fame as the most substantial patron of the Renaissance in Italy, sponsoring such artists as Botticelli and Michelangelo.

During his political career, Medici maintained a balance of power in the Italic League. This was a political entity formed to stabilize borders between the various powers in Italy, and the collapse of this alliance two years after Medici's death would result in the Italian Wars.

The Medici family ruled Florence in this period, though was subject to challenges particularly by the Pazzi family. An effort to assassinate Lorenzo de' Medici and his brother Giuliano ended up killing only the latter, with Lorenzo being wounded.

Born: January 1, 1449
Birthplace: Florence, Republic of Florence
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: April 8, 1492 (aged 43)