Famous Italian Historians

Niccolò Machiavelli was a prominent figure during the Italian Renaissance, serving as a senior official in the Florentine Republic. His professional life was characterized by his roles in diplomatic and military affairs, as well as his work as a writer, philosopher, and historian. Machiavelli is best known for his political treatise, The Prince, which has earned him the title of the father of modern political philosophy. His insights on politics, characterized by realism and practicality, have continued to influence scholars, politicians, and thinkers throughout history.

Giovanni Schiaparelli was an esteemed Italian astronomer and science historian known for his significant contributions to the field. He made pioneering observations of the planet Mars, including the discovery of "canali" (channels) which sparked widespread interest and debate. Schiaparelli's work laid the foundation for future Mars exploration and research. He also played a key role in advancing our understanding of comets and meteor showers. Throughout his career, Schiaparelli garnered international recognition for his expertise and dedication to the scientific community.

Suetonius was a Roman historian known for his biographies of 12 Roman rulers from Julius Caesar to Domitian. He wrote during the early Imperial era of the Roman Empire, focusing on various aspects of Roman life including politics, oratory, and the lives of famous writers. His most important work, De vita Caesarum, has survived and provides valuable insights into the reigns of these rulers. Suetonius also explored the daily life of Rome and the works of poets, historians, and grammarians in his writings, some of which have been lost over time.

Diodorus Siculus was an ancient Greek historian known for his monumental work, Bibliotheca historica, written between 60 and 30 BC. His history is divided into three parts, covering mythic history up to the destruction of Troy, the period from the Trojan War to the death of Alexander the Great, and the time up to about 60 BC. The title Bibliotheca reflects his acknowledgment of drawing on the works of various other authors. Diodorus Siculus's professional life was focused on documenting and preserving historical events from a wide range of geographical regions.

Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius was a Roman senator, consul, and magister officiorum, as well as a polymath, historian, and philosopher of the Early Middle Ages. He played a crucial role in translating Greek classics into Latin, laying the groundwork for the Scholastic movement. Boethius was known for his extensive writings and commentaries on various subjects such as music, mathematics, and theology. Despite facing opposition for his anti-corruption stance, he continued his scholarly pursuits until his imprisonment and eventual execution in 524.

Indro Montanelli was an influential Italian journalist, historian, and writer known for his work at Corriere della Sera and il Giornale. He initially supported Mussolini's dictatorship but later joined the resistance against Nazi authorities during World War II. Montanelli was a staunch conservative columnist, anti-conformist, and anti-communist. He was targeted by the Red Brigades in 1977 but forgave them later. Montanelli was also a popular novelist and historian, notably for his extensive work on the history of Italy in 22 volumes.

Jeanne Modigliani was an accomplished Italian-French Jewish art historian known for her extensive biographical research on her father, the renowned artist Amedeo Modigliani. Despite facing early parental loss, she persevered and was adopted by her aunt. Her professional career was marked by her dedication to studying art history, particularly focusing on her father's life and work. Jeanne Modigliani's most notable contribution was the publication of the book "Modigliani: Man and Myth," which showcased her expertise and passion for preserving her father's legacy through scholarly research.

Sallust, a historian and politician of the Roman Republic, was a supporter of Julius Caesar in the 50s BC. He is known as the earliest Latin-language Roman historian with surviving works, including the Conspiracy of Catiline and The Jugurthine War. Influenced by Thucydides, Sallust's writing style was shaped by the Greek historian's work. During his political career, Sallust gained significant wealth through his governorship of Africa, though it was perceived as ill-gotten.

Carlo Ginzburg is an esteemed Italian historian known for pioneering the field of microhistory. He gained recognition for his work on the beliefs of Italian heretic Menocchio in "The Cheese and the Worms" and the benandanti visionary folk tradition in "The Night Battles". His research extended to early modern Europe with "Ecstasies: Deciphering the Witches' Sabbath". Ginzburg's contributions have significantly influenced the study of history, particularly in exploring unconventional and marginalized perspectives within societies.

Paul the Deacon, also known as Paulus Diaconus, was a Benedictine monk, scribe, and historian of the Lombards. He dedicated his professional life to documenting the history of the Lombard people, providing valuable insights into their culture and society. Through his writings, Paul contributed significantly to the preservation of historical knowledge during the early medieval period. As a respected member of the Benedictine order, he exemplified devotion to scholarship and the dissemination of knowledge within his community and beyond.

Paolo Sarpi was a prominent figure in the church-state conflict of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He served as a theological counsellor to the Venetian Republic and played a key role in challenging papal authority. Sarpi engaged in a heated controversy with the Pope, leading to his assassination attempt. He was a prolific writer, known for works such as the Istoria del Concilio Tridentino, which provided a critical perspective on the Council of Trent. Sarpi's influence extended to scientific studies and correspondence with notable figures of his time.

Euhemerus was a Greek mythographer known for his work at the court of King Cassander of Macedon. His birthplace is disputed, with Messina in Sicily being the most probable location. He is credited with developing the philosophical concept of euhemerism, which suggests that mythological tales stem from historical events and individuals that have been exaggerated over time. Euhemerus's work blended elements of fiction and political utopianism, influencing early Christian writers who used his ideas to underscore the superiority of the Christian God over the ancient gods.

Polydore Vergil, also known as Polydore Vergil of Urbino, was an Italian humanist scholar, historian, priest, and diplomat who made significant contributions to English historical literature. He authored works such as Proverbiorum libellus, a collection of Latin proverbs; De inventoribus rerum, a history of discoveries and origins; and the influential Anglica Historia, considered the "Father of English History". Vergil's professional life was marked by his service to Cardinal Adriano Castellesi and his notable role in chronicling the history of England.

Liutprand of Cremona was a historian, diplomat, and Bishop of Cremona in northern Italy. His works serve as a valuable source for understanding the politics of the 10th century Byzantine court. As a historian, he documented significant events and interactions between Western and Eastern powers. In his role as a diplomat, he engaged in negotiations and represented his region's interests abroad. Later in his career, he became a respected figure within the Church, using his influence to navigate complex political landscapes.

Tyrannius Rufinus was a Roman translator and theologian known for his translations of Greek theological works into Latin. He studied in Alexandria and formed friendships with prominent ascetics. Rufinus established a monastery in Jerusalem and engaged in theological controversies, particularly regarding Origen's teachings. He translated numerous works, including those by Origen and Eusebius, exerting influence on Western theologians. Rufinus's translations contributed to the dissemination of Greek theological ideas in the Latin-speaking world, impacting theological discussions and interpretations in the Western Christian tradition.

Giovanni Baglione was an Italian Late Mannerist and Early Baroque painter known for his extensive collection of artist biographies, providing valuable insights into the art scene in Rome during his lifetime. Despite his prolific painting career, Baglione is most renowned for his complex relationship with the artist Caravaggio, which was documented through his artworks and writings. Baglione's contributions as an art historian and painter have left a lasting impact on the understanding of the artistic developments of the Late Mannerist and Early Baroque periods in Italy.

Valerio Massimo Manfredi is a versatile Italian professional known for his expertise in history, writing, essays, archaeology, and journalism. He has established himself as a prominent figure in the literary world through his captivating novels that often draw inspiration from historical events and mythology. As an archaeologist, he has conducted extensive research and excavations, shedding light on ancient civilizations. His work as a journalist reflects his commitment to informing and engaging audiences on various topics, further showcasing his diverse talents and contributions to the fields he is passionate about.

Peter Martyr d'Anghiera was an Italian historian who served Spain during the Age of Exploration. He wrote detailed accounts of explorations in Central and South America, compiling them into sets of ten chapters called "decades." His work, including "De Orbe Novo," provided valuable insights into geography, discovery, and the interactions between Europeans and Native Americans. Martyr's writings are considered significant contributions to the understanding of Native American civilizations in the Caribbean, North America, and Mesoamerica, and he is credited with the first European reference to India rubber.

Leonardo Bruni, also known as Leonardo Aretino, was an Italian humanist, historian, and statesman who played a significant role in the early Renaissance. He is considered one of the most important humanist historians of his time and has been hailed as the first modern historian. Bruni introduced the three-period view of history - Antiquity, Middle Ages, and Modern - laying the foundation for the tripartite division of history that continues to influence historical studies today.

Caesar Baronius was an Italian Oratorian, cardinal, and historian of the Catholic Church. He is best known for his monumental work, the Annales Ecclesiastici ("Ecclesiastical Annals"), published in 12 folio volumes over two decades. Baronius dedicated himself to chronicling the history of the Catholic Church, providing valuable insights into its development and growth. His scholarly contributions have been highly regarded, leading to his consideration for sainthood. In 1845, Pope Benedict XIV recognized Baronius's holiness by declaring him Venerable.

Francesco Guicciardini was an Italian historian and statesman known for his significant contributions to political writing during the Italian Renaissance. He was a close associate of Niccolò Machiavelli and is renowned for his groundbreaking work, The History of Italy. Guicciardini revolutionized historiography through his innovative use of government sources to bolster his arguments and his realistic analysis of contemporary people and events. His professional life was marked by a dedication to advancing the field of political writing and historical analysis.

Alessandro Barbero is an Italian historian, novelist, and essayist known for his expertise in literature and Medieval history. He has received prestigious literary awards for his works, including the Strega Prize. Barbero's novels, such as "The Anonymous Novel," have been well-received and translated into English. He is also recognized for his historical accounts, such as "The Battle" and "The Day of the Barbarians." Barbero is actively involved in Italian cultural activities, serving on committees and contributing to literary publications. His contributions have earned him international recognition and accolades.

Germano Celant is an influential figure in the art world, known for coining the term "Arte Povera" to describe the minimalist art of post-WWII Italian artists. Starting as a contributor to the Geneva-based art magazine "Marcatrè," Celant went on to become the curator of New York's Guggenheim museum and Director of Milan's Prada Foundation. He is also a prolific author, having written numerous books on art throughout his career. Celant's work as an art historian, critic, and curator has significantly impacted the understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.

Paolo Giovio was a versatile Italian professional known for his expertise in medicine, history, biography, and religion. He made significant contributions to the fields of medicine and history through his writings and research. Giovio's work as a historian and biographer showcased his keen observational skills and deep understanding of human nature. As a prelate, he played a crucial role in religious matters, demonstrating his commitment to spiritual pursuits. Overall, Paolo Giovio's professional life was characterized by his intellectual curiosity, diverse talents, and dedication to his various fields of expertise.

Flavio Biondo was an Italian Renaissance humanist historian who revolutionized historical scholarship by introducing a three-period division of history. He is recognized as one of the earliest archaeologists. Biondo's professional life was marked by scholarly pursuits and influential appointments, including serving as secretary to the Cancelleria under Eugene IV. He transcribed important manuscripts and worked closely with various papal successors, such as Nicholas V and Pius II. Biondo's career was characterized by a dedication to historical research and a close association with prominent figures in the Renaissance era.

Count Pietro Verri was an influential figure in 18th-century Italian culture, renowned for his contributions as an economist, historian, philosopher, and writer. He played a crucial role in the Lombard reformist Enlightenment movement and was considered a leading authority on topics such as cheapness and plenty. Verri's work positioned him as a key figure in shaping economic thought before the era of Adam Smith, solidifying his legacy as one of the foremost thinkers of his time.

Filippo Baldinucci was an Italian art historian and biographer known for his significant contributions to the study of art and artists in Italy. He dedicated his professional life to documenting and analyzing the works of various artists, providing valuable insights into the art world of his time. Baldinucci's work is highly regarded for its thorough research and detailed accounts of artists' lives and works, making him a respected figure in the field of art history and biography.

Lodovico Antonio Muratori was an Italian Catholic priest renowned for his expertise as a historian and scholar during the 18th century. His significant contributions to academia include the discovery of the Muratorian fragment, an important early list of New Testament books. Muratori's professional life was distinguished by his dedication to research and his commitment to advancing knowledge in the fields of history and religious studies. He left a lasting impact on the scholarly community through his influential works and discoveries.

Marino Sanuto the Younger, also known as Marin Sanudo de Candia, was a renowned Venetian historian and diarist. His primary focus was on documenting the events and history of Venice, particularly through his extensive work, Diarii. He dedicated himself to chronicling the political and social developments of his time, envisioning his diaries as the foundation for a comprehensive history of Venice. Through his meticulous recording and analysis of events, Sanuto made significant contributions to the understanding of Venetian history and society during the Renaissance period.

Salimbene di Adam, O.F.M., was an Italian Franciscan friar, theologian, and chronicler. He gained renown as one of the most celebrated chroniclers of the High Middle Ages. His work, Cronica, is considered a crucial source for Italian history in the 13th century. Salimbene's professional life was dedicated to documenting historical events, religious teachings, and societal developments of his time. Through his writings, he contributed significantly to the preservation and understanding of the cultural and political landscape of medieval Italy.

Luigi Albertini was an influential Italian newspaper editor, member of the Italian Parliament, and historian of the First World War. He served as editor of Corriere della Sera, advocating for liberalism while opposing socialism and clericalism. He stood against compromises with opposing forces, including Giovanni Giolitti's government. Despite initially supporting the National Fascist Party for its stance against the Left, Albertini became an outspoken anti-fascist, leading to his dismissal in 1925. He played a significant role in Italian politics as a member of the Senate from 1914 to 1922.

Albertino Mussato was a prominent figure in Padua, known for his contributions to the revival of literary Latin and the early humanist movement. As a statesman, poet, historian, and playwright, he held various roles, including acting as an ambassador between Padua and Emperor Henry VII. His most famous work, the Latin play Ecerinis, marked a significant shift in Italian literature, being the first secular tragedy since Roman times. Mussato's influence extended to other humanists such as Petrarch, and he was recognized with the poet laureate honor for his literary and political achievements.

Daniello Bartoli, SJ, was an esteemed Italian Jesuit writer and historiographer known for his significant contributions to literature. He was praised by the poet Giacomo Leopardi as the "Dante of Italian prose," highlighting his exceptional talent and influence in the literary world. Bartoli's professional life revolved around producing compelling works that left a lasting impact on readers, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in Italian literature. His dedication to writing and his profound insights have cemented his legacy as a revered writer and historian.

Luigi Carlo Farini was a prominent figure in Italian history, known for his multifaceted career as a physician, statesman, and historian. He made significant contributions to the fields of medicine and politics, advocating for social and healthcare reforms. As a historian, he meticulously documented and analyzed events, providing valuable insights into Italy's past. Farini's dedication to his various professions earned him respect and recognition both domestically and internationally, establishing him as a respected figure in Italian intellectual and political circles.

Marquis Gino Capponi was an Italian statesman and historian known for his liberal Catholic beliefs. He dedicated himself to serious study and foreign travel, becoming deeply interested in English institutions. He founded a review journal in Florence, contributed to various publications, and actively engaged in politics, advocating for the economic development of Tuscany. Capponi's work as a historian, particularly his comprehensive book on the history of the Republic of Florence, earned him a reputation as a prominent figure in Italian intellectual circles.

Antonio Bonfini, an Italian humanist and poet, served as a court historian in Hungary under King Matthias Corvinus. He was commissioned by Matthias Corvinus to produce Historia Pannonica: Sive Hungaricarum Rerum Decades IV, chronicling the history of Hungary. Bonfini's professional life was focused on documenting and preserving historical events, particularly those related to Hungarian history. He dedicated his career to producing comprehensive works that would serve as important sources of information for future generations, contributing significantly to the understanding and preservation of Hungarian history.

Vincenzo Cuoco was an Italian writer known for his influential work "Historical Essay on the Neapolitan Revolution of 1799." He is considered a precursor of the realist school and Italian liberalism, adapting critiques of political rationalism for liberal purposes. Cuoco's historical insights surpassed those of his contemporaries Edmund Burke and Joseph de Maistre, earning him a reputation as a superior historian. His ideas left a lasting impact on subsequent Italian intellectuals, including Ugo Foscolo, Alessandro Manzoni, and Benedetto Croce, shaping their perspectives on history and politics.

Philistus was a Greek historian from Sicily, Magna Graecia. He was a faithful supporter of the elder Dionysius, serving as commander of the citadel in Syracuse. Known for his historical works, Philistus was likened to a miniature Thucydides by Cicero. He was highly esteemed by the Alexandrian critics and his writings were valued by Alexander the Great. Philistus played a crucial role in the rise to power of Dionysius, supporting him financially and even commanding his fleet in battle.

Marco Santagata was an accomplished Italian academic, writer, and literary critic known for his significant contributions to the field of literature. He dedicated his professional life to the study and analysis of various literary works, earning a reputation for his insightful critiques and scholarly writings. Santagata's expertise extended to a wide range of literary genres and periods, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of literature. Through his work, he left a lasting impact on the academic community and inspired many with his passion for literature.

Anna Banti was a multifaceted Italian professional known for her work as a writer, art historian, critic, and translator. Throughout her career, she made significant contributions to the fields of literature and art criticism, earning recognition for her insightful analyses and interpretations. Banti's expertise in translating various texts helped bridge cultural divides and bring diverse works to a wider audience. Her versatile talents and deep understanding of the arts positioned her as a respected figure in the intellectual circles of her time.

Lea Vergine was a prominent figure in the Italian art scene, known for her contributions as an art critic, essayist, and curator. Throughout her career, she played a significant role in shaping the discourse around contemporary art, with a particular focus on avant-garde and experimental movements. Vergine's insightful critiques and writings provided valuable insights into the art world, while her work as a curator helped showcase innovative and boundary-pushing artistic expressions. Her impact and influence continue to be felt in the art community.

Carlo Giuseppe Guglielmo Botta was an Italian historian known for his significant contributions to the field. He gained recognition for his meticulous research and insightful analyses, particularly focusing on the history of Italy. Botta's works were highly regarded for their depth and accuracy, establishing him as a respected authority in historical studies. Through his writings, lectures, and academic pursuits, Botta made a lasting impact on the understanding and preservation of Italian history, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the field of historiography.

Caecilius of Calacte was a prominent rhetorician and literary critic in ancient Rome during the reign of Augustus. Originally from Sicily, he was known for his expertise in history and literary criticism. He taught in Rome and was a proponent of Atticism, advocating for the use of Attic style in rhetoric. His works included treatises on rhetorical figures, the difference between Attic and Asiatic styles, and analyses of various orators such as Demosthenes and Antiphon. His influence was significant, as seen in Longinus' response to his work on the Sublime.

Pietro Giannone was an Italian philosopher, historian, and jurist known for opposing papal influence in Naples. He faced excommunication and imprisonment for twelve years due to his beliefs. Despite this, he continued to challenge the dominant powers of his time through his writings and activism. Giannone's professional life was marked by his dedication to advancing ideas of political and religious freedom, as well as his commitment to advocating for greater autonomy from papal authority in the region.

Lucius Aelius Stilo Praeconinus was an esteemed philologist of the Roman Republic who was known for his expertise in writing speeches and his dedication to teaching and literary pursuits. He was respected for his work in analyzing and commenting on various literary works, including the hymns of the Salii and the comedies of Plautus. Stilo's influence extended to prominent figures like Varro and Cicero, who were among his notable pupils. His contributions to glossography and potential authorship of the rhetorical treatise Ad Herennium further solidified his reputation as a scholarly figure in ancient Rome.

Raffaele Pettazzoni was an Italian anthropologist, archaeologist, professor, and historian of religion known for his pioneering historical approach to studying religions. He served as editor-in-chief of the academic journal Numen published by Brill Academic Publishers and was president of the International Association for the History of Religions. Over his thirty-year career, Pettazzoni conducted extensive research on Prehistoric religion of ancient Italic peoples, Greek and Roman polytheism, Iranic religions, and the evolutionary origins of religions.

Giuseppe Ferrari was a prominent Italian figure known for his contributions as a philosopher, historian, and politician. Throughout his professional life, Ferrari engaged in intellectual pursuits, delving into philosophical inquiries and historical research. His work reflected a deep understanding of political theory and societal structures. As a politician, he was actively involved in shaping the political landscape of his time, advocating for change and reform. Ferrari's legacy continues to be remembered for his scholarly achievements and his dedication to advancing philosophical and political thought.

Jacopo Nardi was an Italian historian from Florence who played a significant role in the political landscape of the city during the 15th and 16th centuries. He served the Florentine republic in various capacities both before and after the Medici family's rule. Nardi actively participated in the movement against the Medici, ultimately leading to his exile and confiscation of his property. Despite these setbacks, he continued to advocate for the Florentine exiles' cause through his writings, particularly in his work Istorie della Città di Firenze.

Enrico Caterino Davila was an accomplished Italian historian and diplomat known for his contributions to the fields of history and international relations. Throughout his career, he held various diplomatic positions and played a key role in diplomatic missions. Davila's expertise in history led to the publication of several influential works, establishing him as a prominent figure in historical scholarship. His comprehensive understanding of diplomatic relations and historical events earned him recognition as a skilled and knowledgeable professional in his field.

Luigi Antonio Lanzi was an Italian Jesuit priest celebrated for his contributions to art history and archaeology. Renowned for his insightful writings, Lanzi's professional life was marked by a deep passion for studying and documenting artistic and archaeological works. His meticulous research and scholarly analyses have greatly enriched the field, earning him a distinguished reputation among his peers. Lanzi's expertise and dedication to his craft were evident in his numerous works, establishing him as a leading authority in the study of art and antiquities.

Guido Bentivoglio d'Aragona was an influential figure in Italian history, known for his roles as a cardinal, statesman, and historian. He played a significant part in diplomatic affairs and international relations, representing the Papal States in various capacities. Bentivoglio's expertise in history and his diplomatic skills were highly regarded, and he was involved in important negotiations and treaties during his career. His work as a historian also contributed to a deeper understanding of the political landscape and cultural developments of his time.