
Italian cardinal turned military leader, inspiration for Machiavelli's Prince.
Compare Cesare Borgia with another historical figure:
Cesare Borgia was appointed cardinal by his father, Pope Alexander VI. This position gave him significant power within the Church and access to papal resources. He used his cardinalate to advance his family's political interests in Italy.
Cesare Borgia resigned as cardinal to pursue a military and political career. He became the first person to voluntarily leave the College of Cardinals. This move allowed him to focus on conquering territories in the Romagna region of Italy.
Cesare Borgia, with French support, launched a campaign to conquer the cities of the Romagna. He captured Imola, Forl
After the death of Pope Alexander VI, Cesare Borgia lost his political support. He was captured by his enemies and imprisoned in Spain. His territories in Italy quickly collapsed. This sudden fall demonstrated the fragility of his power base.
Cesare Borgia was killed in a skirmish near Viana, Navarre, while serving as a mercenary captain. His death ended any chance of restoring his former power. He died at age 31, having failed to regain his Italian territories.
See how Cesare Borgia stacks up against other historical figures