Who were the medicis?
a. a family of architects during the renaissance who built famous buildings
b. a family of artists who produced much of the art in italy during the 15th century
c. a wealthy banking family who virtually ruled florence
d. a wealthy family of writers during the renaissance

The correct answer is C. The Medicis were a wealthy banking family who virtually ruled Florence.

The Medicis were a powerful and influential Renaissance family in Florence whose members included three Popes, Leo X, Clement VII, and Leo XI; two queens of France, Catherine de Medici and Marie de Medici; in addition to numerous Florentine leaders and- members of the royal houses of France and England.

The initial power of the family emerged from banking. The Banca Medici was one of the most prosperous and respected banks in Europe. With this base, they acquired political power initially in Florence. Their power and influence then spread throughout Italy and the rest of the European continent.

adopted the practice of proskynesis, a persian court custom that involved bowing down and kissing the hand of others, depending on their rank.