French Invasion of Italy and Outbreak of Syphilis

The French Invasion. Charles VIII, King of France, launched an invasion of Italy in September 1494 to enforce his claim to the Neapolitan throne. His army, equipped with modern artillery, marched across the peninsula with minimal resistance, reaching Florence in November 1494.

Outbreak of Syphilis. The first widely documented outbreak of syphilis in Europe occurred among French troops in Naples in 1495. The disease was initially called the "French disease" by locals and later named by Girolamo Fracastoro, linking its spread to the French invasion.

Entry into Florence. Charles VIII entered Florence triumphally on November 17, 1494. This event marked a significant moment in Italian history, as the French army's presence challenged the political stability of the Italian states and led to the formation of the League of Venice.