Renaissance Armies in Italy 1450-1550

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During the Italian Renaissance, religion began to recede in favor of science and the arts, yet the era was marked by significant political and military strife. Regional conflicts erupted among states like Milan, Venice, Genoa, Florence, the Papacy, Siena, and Naples. From 1494, foreign powers exploited these divisions, invading Italy as they vied for dominance. France and Spain formed temporary alliances with city-states, while Emperor Charles V dispatched armies from Germany to support Spanish interests. This tumultuous period saw the rise of disciplined infantry armed with polearms, crossbows, and handguns, which challenged the supremacy of armored knights in key battles such as Fornovo, Cerignola, Marignano, and Pavia. Professional mercenaries played a crucial role in the transition to the "pike and shot" era, marking a shift from the "High Middle Ages." The variety in costumes, armor, and weaponry reflected both national influences and advancements in tactics and technology. This richly illustrated study provides deep insights into the diverse armies that fought in Italy during this dynamic time, detailing their arms, equipment, structures, and the outcomes of their engagements on the battlefield.