The Lion's last roar and a new religion blooming (1519 - 1521)
In this episode, we dive into the dramatic papacy of Pope Leo X, exploring his efforts to secure Medici power, his architectural and social reforms in Rome, and his role in the early days of the Protestant Reformation. We track how his favoritism toward Florence shaped papal policy, the challenges he faced with Martin Luther, and the growing religious divide that would soon shake Europe to its core.
We also spotlight Leo's political maneuvers in Italy, from annexing Urbino and Perugia to negotiating alliances with the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. And of course, there's a bit of colorful historical storytelling—like Machiavelli getting upstaged by two dogs, and the dramatic origins of Giovanni delle Bande Nere .
🧠 What You’ll Learn:
- How Pope Leo X used the papacy to benefit the Medici family and Florence.
- His land reform policies that helped Roman farmers.
- The significance of the Duchy of Urbino and Perugia joining the Papal States.
- Why Martin Luther’s ideas gained traction—and how Leo X underestimated the Reformation.
- The impact of the printing press and vernacular language in spreading revolutionary ideas.
- The cultural comeback of Matilda of Tuscany and her symbolic power in German-Italian relations.
- The complex political chess match between Pope Leo X, Charles V, and Francis I of France.
- The death and legacy of Leo X—and how his actions paved the way for future Medici power play
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