Giovanni Dandolo

Giovanni Dandolo was a prominent Venetian politician and military leader in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. As the Doge of Venice from 1192 until his death in 1205, he played a key role in shaping Venice's expansion and influence. Dandolo is notably recognized for guiding Venice during the Fourth Crusade, which led to the sack of Constantinople in 1204—an event that greatly increased Venice's power and wealth. His leadership helped establish Venice as a major maritime and commercial empire during the medieval period.