Il Carmagnola

Carmagnola was an Italian soldier, known as a condottiere, who led mercenary bands in the 15th century. He initially served the viscounts of Milan before fighting for Venice against his former employers. Despite his military successes, Carmagnola ultimately aroused the suspicion of the Venetian oligarchy and was executed in 1432. The condottieri, including Carmagnola, were prominent figures in the fragmented Italian states, often fighting for personal gain and switching allegiances. Their era declined by the end of the 15th century as larger European armies emerged.1