First and Second Italian Wars 1494-1504: Fearless Knights, Ruthless Princes and the Coming of Gunpowder Armies

The First and Second Italian Wars were a series of military operations and political machinations in Italy from 1494 to 1504, marked by the French conquest of much of Italy, the second French invasion, and the rise of Cesare Borgia. These wars were not just another series of medieval fights, but the emergence of the Military Revolution, with the French utilizing a new method of artillery transport, the Spanish commander formulating a new system of military unit organization, and Cesare Borgia seeking different systems of raising troops and forming states.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2020
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The First and Second Italian Wars, spanning from 1494 to 1504, witnessed a complex interplay of military operations and political maneuvers in Italy. The narrative commenced with the French conquest of a significant portion of the country, but their hold on Italy proved ephemeral. The second French invasion, led by the alliance with Pope's son Cesare Borgia, resulted in the capture of Northern Italy. However, Cesare's double-dealing and mismanagement led to a catastrophic outcome. Despite the French alliance with the Spanish, their attempt to retake Naples ended in defeat at the hands of the renowned general Gonzalo de Cordoba at the Battle of Garigliano. These wars marked a departure from previous medieval conflicts, as the French employed innovative artillery transport methods, the Spanish commander devised a new system of military unit organization, and Cesare Borgia pursued unique strategies for raising troops and establishing states. Furthermore, these wars witnessed unprecedented financial expenditure, heralding the dawn of the so-called Military Revolution.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 164 x 240 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526750518