Gian Gastone de' Medici

Gian Gastone de' Medici was the last ruler of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany from 1723 to 1737. As a member of the influential Medici family, he inherited a culturally rich and politically significant territory. His reign was characterized by personal independence but also by political instability and incompetence, which eventually led to the end of Medici rule in Tuscany. Gian Gastone was known for his modest lifestyle and support of the arts, although his reign did not significantly advance the duchy's fortunes. His death marked the collapse of Medici power in Tuscany, leading to foreign succession.