The thirst for autonomy in each state was as great as of old among the cities of Greece.

To be independent of a sister republic, though such freedom were bought at the price of the tyranny of a native family was the first object of every commonwealth.
At the same time this passion for independence was only equaled by the greed of foreign usurpation.

The second object of each republic was to extend its power at the expense of its neighbors.

As Pisa swallowed Amalfi, so Genoa destroyed Pisa, and Venice did her best to cripple Genoa.

Florence obliterated the rival burgh of Semifonte, and Milan twice reduced Piacenza to a wilderness.