Background
Piero Capponi was born in Italy in 1447.
Piero Capponi was born in Italy in 1447.
Piero Capponi was at first intended for a business career, but Lorenzo de' Medici, appreciating his ability, sent him as ambassador to various courts, where he acquitted himself with distinction.
In November Charles, on his way to Naples, entered Florence with his army, and immediately began to behave as though he were the conqueror of the city, because he had entered it lance in rest.
The signory was anxious to be on good terms with him, but when he spoke in favour of the Medici their temper changed at once, and the citizens were ordered to arm and be prepared for all emergencies.
Tumults broke out between French soldiers and Florentine citizens, barricades were erected and stones began to fly from the windows.
This alarmed Charles, who lowered his tone and said nothing moreabout conquered cities or the Medici.
The Florentines were willing to pay him a large sum of money, but in settling the amount further disagreements arose.
Charles, who was full of the Medici's promises, made exorbitant demands, and finally presented an ultimatum to the signory, who rejected it. "
Charles, who did not relish the idea of house-to-house fighting, was forced to moderate his claims, and concluded a more equitable treaty with the republic.
But being more at home in the camp than in the council chamber, he was glad of the opportunity of leading the armies of the republic against the Pisan rebels.
