Venice, according to Giannotti, counted at about the same period 20,000 _fuochi_, each of which supplied the state with two men fit to bear arms.

These calculations, though obviously rough and based upon no accurate returns, show that a republic of 100,000 souls, of whom 5,000 should be citizens, would have taken distinguished rank among Italian cities.[1] In a state of this size, divided by feuds of every kind, from the highest political antagonism down to the meanest personal antipathy, changes were very easily effected.

The slightest disturbance of the equilibrium in any quarter made itself felt throughout the city.[2] The opinions of each burgher were known and calculated.

Individuals, by their wealth, their power of aiding or of suppressing poorer citizens, and the force of their personal ability, acquired a perilous importance.

At Florence the political balance was so nicely adjusted that the ringing of the great bell in the Palazzo meant a revolution, and to raise the cry of _Palle_ in the streets was tantamount to an outbreak in the Medicean interest.
To call aloud _Popolo e liberta_ was nothing less than riot punishable by law.