RIVALRIES

The Albizzi Family 

The Albizzi family had been one of the leading families in Florence before the Medici and their bank gained power. In response to the emerging threat of the Medici, Rinaldo degli Albizzi (the head of the family) tried to solidify his own control of the government, ultimately exiling Cosimo from Florence for a year. 

The Strozzi family, another one of the wealthiest families in Florence at the time, were allies with the Albizzi during the war against the Medici. When Cosimo returned to power, he exiled Palla Strozzi and other male members of the family, consolidating Medici power over Florence. 

The Strozzi Family