Why did other Italian states fear Venice’s expansion during the 15th century?

During the 15th century, other Italian states grew increasingly suspicious and fearful of Venice’s territorial expansion on the mainland. As the republic acquired significant territories—including Verona, Vicenza, Padua, Brescia, and Bergamo—its neighbors perceived a growing threat to the regional balance of power.12

This anxiety was famously articulated by Pope Pius II, who feared that Venice was seeking the "monarchy of Italy". Many contemporary rulers shared this sentiment, believing that if Venice’s aggressive territorial ambitions were not checked, the neighboring states would eventually suffer the consequences. This widespread suspicion culminated in the formation of the League of Cambrai in 1508, an alliance of major powers—including the Pope, the Holy Roman Emperor, and the kings of France and Spain—who sought to attack the republic and divide its mainland possessions among themselves. Ultimately, this opposition from fellow Italian states became a significant source of weakness for Venice, hindering its ability to defend its interests against external threats like the Ottoman Empire.13