The occupation of Florence by French King Charles VIII in 1494 occurred during the broader context of the Italian Wars, a series of conflicts involving various European powers vying for control over Italian territories. The Medici family had recently been forced out of Florence, leading to a power vacuum and internal discord among the republic's factions. Charles saw this as an opportune moment to intervene in Italian politics and strengthen French influence in the region.

Upon his entry, Charles was welcomed by some factions of Florentines who viewed him as a liberator against the oppressive Medici rule. His forces, bolstered by their military might, advanced with the intent of establishing a stable government aligned with French interests. The occupation marked the beginning of a series of engagements that would reshape the political landscape of Italy, as various city-states would respond to the French presence with their military and diplomatic strategies.

However, not all Florentines were in agreement with the new French authority, leading to tensions within the city. The political situation remained fluid, influenced by the ambitions of other Italian states and their rulers, ultimately contributing to an extended conflict across the Italian Peninsula. The events in Florence under Charles VIII thus served as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for power in Italy, setting the stage for further conflict and upheaval throughout the 16th century.