A Condottiero was a leader of a band of mercenaries in Italy during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. These military captains were often hired by city-states and noble families to fight in their wars. The term comes from the Italian word "condotta," meaning "contract," reflecting the agreements made for their services. Condottieri played a significant role in the political and military landscape of Italy, influencing battles and power dynamics. Notable condottieri include Francesco Sforza and Bartolomeo Colleoni, who became prominent figures in their own right, sometimes even ruling territories after their military careers.