Italian Condottieri were mercenary leaders in Italy during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, primarily from the 14th to the 16th centuries. They commanded private armies and were often hired by city-states, nobles, and the Church to fight in various conflicts. Their skills in warfare and strategy made them influential figures in Italian politics and military affairs. These leaders operated in a fragmented political landscape, where loyalty was often temporary and based on financial incentives. Notable Condottieri included Francesco Sforza and Giovanni delle Bande Nere, who played significant roles in shaping the military and political dynamics of their time.