Niccolo Machiavelli was a diplomat for 14 years in Italy's Florentine Republic. He was considered the father of modern political theory. He wrote several poems and plays. His most famous writing was The Prince which was a handbook for politicians. He lived in a small village just outside of Florence. He died in the city on June 21, 1527.

William Shakespeare Is best known for writing played like Romeo and Juliet. He was part of an acting company called Lord Chamberlain's Men. Many of Shakespeare's greatest plays were written in the last half of his career. He is credited with creating nearly 3000 words for the English language. His success in theater made him very wealthy by the time he got older. William died on his 52nd birthday.

Leonardo da Vinci was a artist, inventor, and scientist during the Italian Renaissance. He is considered by many to be one of the most talented and intelligent people of all time. Leonardo excelled in many areas including drawing, painting, and sculpture. He is best know for his paintings the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. His journals were filled with over 13,000 pages of his observations of the world. He drew pictures and designs of hang gliders, helicopters, war machines, musical instruments, various pumps, and more.

Raphael was a painter and architect during the renaissance. As a young boy, Raphael learned the basics of painting from his father. When Raphael was just eleven years old his father died. Raphael was considered a friendly and social artist. People liked him and enjoyed his company. He is best known for his paintings The School of Athens, The Sistine Madonna, and The Transfiguration. He died on his 37th birthday.