Explores political rivalries and cultural flourishing of Renaissance Italy, focusing on reliable information, modern diplomacy, state finance and Republican politics. Discusses complex political environment, centralized feudal authority, concentration of wealth, and unique political structures of major players such as Milan, Venice, and Genoa. Examines Hundred Years War in Italy, shifting alliances, and growth of major states at the expense of smaller neighbors. Explores development of self-government, republican political systems, and the power of words in ideological conflicts. Discusses role of resident ambassadors in maintaining peace, influencing European diplomacy. Includes closing segment and podcast advertisement.