(Encyclopedia) Sixtus IVSixtus IVsĭkˈstəs [key], 1414–84, pope (1471–84), an Italian named Francesco della Rovere (b. near Savona); successor of Paul II. He was made general of his order, the…
(Encyclopedia) Swiss Guards, Swiss mercenaries who fought in various European armies from the 15th cent. until the 19th cent. These mercenaries, who were not volunteers, were put at the disposal of…
(Encyclopedia) TriumvirateTriumviratetrīŭmˈvĭrĭt, –vĭrātˌ [key], in ancient Rome, ruling board or commission of three men. Triumvirates were common in the Roman republic. The First Triumvirate was…
(Encyclopedia) Pius IV, 1499–1565, pope (1559–65), a Milanese named Giovanni Angelo de' Medici; successor of Paul IV. He was probably not related to the great Medici family. His career in Rome began…
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Leap year is an interesting phenomenon, but it helps to explain what happens to the extra quarter of a day each calendar year. Read on for more information on why leap year…
