Black Guelfs
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The Black Guelfs were a political faction in medieval Italy, primarily active in Florence. They emerged from the broader Guelf movement, which generally supported the papacy against the Holy Roman emperors.1
In Florence, the Guelfs and Ghibellines represented opposing political alignments. The Black Guelfs, often associated with wealthy merchant families, favored aggressive expansion and policies that benefited their economic interests. This contrasted with the White Guelfs, who tended to support peace and the interests of lesser citizens. The conflict between these factions was intense, sometimes leading to the exile of the losing party from the city. The Black Guelfs eventually gained dominance in Florence, particularly after 1302.21
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FlorenceThe early period…policy was embraced by the Blacks (Neri; the rich merchants), the latter by the Whites (Bianchi; the lesser citizens).
Read More…policy was embraced by the Blacks (Neri; the rich merchants), the latter by the Whites (Bianchi; the lesser citizens).
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ItalyFlorence in the 14th centurySo in 1302 the “Black” Guelfs, in alliance with Pope Boniface VIII, succeeded in expelling the “Whites.” Among the White Guelfs at this time was Dante (1265–1321), who had held public office. Doomed to spend the rest of his life in exile, he wrote La commedia (c. 1308–21), later named…
Read MoreSo in 1302 the “Black” Guelfs, in alliance with Pope Boniface VIII, succeeded in expelling the “Whites.” Among the White Guelfs at this time was Dante (1265–1321), who had held public office. Doomed to spend the rest of his life in exile, he wrote La commedia (c. 1308–21), later named…
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