The House of Medici, or the Medici family, was a very influential and extremely powerful family during the Renaissance period in Italy. The Renaissance took place starting from the end of the 14th century. During this period, people began to take an interest in and appreciate classical times. The beginning of this powerful family really begins with Giovanni di Bicci deˈ Medici. He was born in the year 1360 in Florence, Italy. Originally from the Tuscan hills, the Medici family emigrated to Florence in the 12th century. Giovanni di Bicci deˈ Medici was the man who really started the family. He founded the Medici Bank and began using money to gain influence. The Medici Bank eventually became the official bank of the Papacy in the early 15th century. John had political power, but not through political office; he used his money and wealth to encourage and influence the politicians of Florence. John was well-liked by the people for his influence on tax reform. Giovanni had a son named Cosimo de Medici in 1389. Using the family wealth, Cosimo settled ...