1. Part III September 21, 2009 Yes….it continues…..he he he

2.  Italy was not a united country, but a collection of independent City-States.  The Treaty of Lodi (1454-1455) brought Milan, Naples and Florence together against Venice and the Papal States  This maintained a balance of power

3.  Around 1490, Milan saw a new ruler in Milanese il Moro.  He resumed hostilities when an alliance of Naples, Florence and the Papal States threatened him.  He then made a critical mistake….

4.  He appealed to France for help.  France had dynastic claims to not only Naples, but to Milan as well.  France invaded and marched quickly through Italy.  This invasion struck fear not only into the hearts of Italians…but also into the heart of……

5.  Spain!!!  Ferdinand of Aragon also had eyes on Italy. Now he was afraid of a France/Italy alliance.  He formed the League of Venice in 1495 with Spain, Venice, the Papal States and the Holy Roman Emperor.  The League managed to drive France out….

6.  But not for long!!!  Pope Alexander VI came to ally himself with France, promoting French claims in Italy.  France and the Pope remained in alliance until his death.  Eventually France was able to reinvade twice more.

7.  He was convinced that Italian political unity and independence were ends that justified any means  He advised Renaissance princes to practice artful deception and inspire fear if they wanted to be successful.