MEDICI

MEDICI, an illustrious family who attained sovereign power in Florence in the 15th century, the most celebrated members of which were: COSMO DE MEDICI (1389-1464), surnamed the "Father of his Country," was exiled for ten years but recalled, and had afterwards a peaceful and prosperous reign; was a student of philosophy, and much interested in literature. LORENZO DE MEDICI (1448-1492), the Magnificent, did much to demoralise Florence, but patronised literature and the arts. Other celebrated members of the family were POPES LEO X., CLEMENT VII., and CATHERINE AND MARY DE MEDICI.