Phoenix, 2001, $19.95, ISBN 1-84212-456-0, 206 pages, trade paperback

This reprint of a 1977 book follows the Medici family tree from the 1300s to the 1700s as the family built a dynasty in medieval and renaissance Florence. It wasn't always easy, and several members fled into exile at various times, but the banking and financial empire thrived through the ages and allowed them back.

Along the way, they became quite adept at wheeling, dealing, and double-dealing. From the manipulation of the city's masses to Emperors and Popes, the Medici constantly stirred the pot of politics. Hale's tale of such power brokering forms the highlights of the book. Not all members were as competent as others, and social and financial conditions changed across the centuries, but the heydays of Florence coincided with a rise in Medici fortunes.

Even art proved an extension of Medici power, of not, the golden age of Renaissance artistry was just another tool to show Medici status. According to Hale, most of them cared little for art beyond the recognition that only great men could afford such extravagance.

On the other hand, Medicis pushed education--for themselves, not any masses. An educated power broker is an effective power broker.

If you want to know how a family stays in power century after century, Hale's book is a good place to start.

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