Medici, Cosimo de’, << MEHD ih chee, KAW zee maw day >> (1389-1464), was a wealthy banker who ruled Florence, Italy. He was an important patron of artists and writers during the Renaissance, a revival of interest in classical culture that began in the 1300’s.
Cosimo was born on Sept. 27, 1389, in Florence. Like his father, Giovanni de’ Medici, he was a banker and merchant. Cosimo built up his father’s fortune, and his banks spread all over Europe. Many Florentines looked to him for leadership in government affairs. Others feared his ambition. In 1433, the city’s ruling group drove him from Florence. But this group later lost power, and Cosimo returned in triumph in 1434. He ruled Florence from then until his death, though he rarely held an official title. People recognized his authority because he gave good advice and had many supporters in the city.
Cosimo loved good art and literature and was a shrewd judge of talent in painters and writers. He founded libraries and built a magnificent palace. The palace, the libraries, and the art that he supported helped beautify Florence. He died on Aug. 1, 1464.
