The Complete Literary Works of Lorenzo de' Medici, The MagnificentLorenzo de' Medici (January 1, 1449 April 9, 1492), known as Lorenzo the Magnificent, was the scion of the powerful and wealthy Medici family. A diplomat, politician, patron, and friend of artists and humanists, he was also ruler of the Florentine Republic from December 2, 1469, until his death. Although he died at the age of forty three and ruled for only twenty three years, he was well recognized for his importance to the Florentine High