Bartolomeo Colleoni's long career stood out for avoiding the robbery and scandal attached to many mercenary companies. He often exercised practical command behind leaders who held the formal title, effectively serving as the military hand of Venice. After Venice initially denied him a lifetime appointment, he left for Milan and demonstrated how costly his absence could be. The republic paid heavily to recover his service and eventually appointed him captain-general for life in 1455.
Notable Point · 41:36-44:52
Bartolomeo Colleoni became the military hand of Venice
The ship's namesake earned a reputation for disciplined service and became so valuable to Venice that the republic recalled him and made him captain-general for life.