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Cola di Rienzo's Popular Dictatorship
In 1347, Roman plebeian leader Cola di Rienzo, exploiting papal-noble conflicts and popular discontent over taxes, proclaimed restoration of the anci…
Timeline
- 1347Castel Sant'Angelo · RomeWith support from the populace and some clergy, Cola di Rienzo convened an assembly at Castel Sant'Angelo, proclaiming the abolition of noble privileges, the restoration of ancient Roman popular sovereignty, and himself as tribune (tribunus).
- 1347Rome · RomeRienzo implemented unified taxation, established a council of seven, reinforced legitimacy through ancient Roman ceremonies, and sent envoys to contact Italian cities, proclaiming Rome the source of Italian liberty, briefly winning responses from some cities.
- 1347Rome · RomeAmid fiscal exhaustion, excessive concessions to the nobles, and popular disappointment at his lavish displays, Rienzo lost support during noble and citizen riots, fled Rome in December 1347, and the popular dictatorship came to an end.
Sources
- Rome in the Age of Enlightenment: The Post-Tridentine Syndrome and the Ancien Régime — Hans Gross (1990)
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cola di Rienzo https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cola-di-Rienzo