Giovanni de Medici (Giovanni de' Medici il Popolano)

Giovanni de' Medici, known as Giovanni il Popolano, was a notable member of the influential Medici family in Renaissance Florence. Born in 1360, he played a critical role in expanding the family's wealth and political power. Unlike his noble forebears, Giovanni focused on trade and banking, helping to establish the Medici bank as a leading financial institution. He was also involved in public life, serving as a member of the Florentine government. His efforts laid the groundwork for his descendants, most famously Lorenzo de' Medici, to further shape Renaissance culture and politics. Giovanni died in 1429.