In the 16th century, the city of Florence had shifted back and forth between republic and Medici rule several times. After a period of Medici supremacy, the return of the republican governance was greatly influenced by the rise of anti-Medici sentiments amongst the citizens. Fueled by the despair of increased taxes and the political machinations of the Medici, the citizens began to mobilize against their rulers. The events of May 1527 were culminated by the ongoing tensions within Italy, particularly with the invasion of Charles V's imperial forces creating instability in Florence. The Florentine populace, determined to reclaim their autonomy, formed a coalition of various factions including artisans, merchants, and other political groups who opposed the Medici’s centralized control. Peaceful protests swiftly turned into organized resistance, leading to the ousting of Alessandro de' Medici, the Duke of Florence, as he was seen as an embodiment of the family's oppressive rule. This victory was a significant shift in Florence’s political landscape, as it re-established the traditional republican government.