On April 12th, 1452 perhaps one of the most influential men of the Italian Renaissance, Leonardo da Vinci, was born. A polymath, learned in many extensive arts and sciences, Leonardo would go on to have many accomplishments and discoveries in his lifetime. His interesting background, effect on the Italian Renaissance and Humanism, and his scientific mind make him one of the most fascinating people in all of history. Leonardo da Vinci did not have, what we would consider today, a surname and was born Leonardo di ser Piero. “Da Vinci” translates to “of Vinci”, which is the town near his birthplace of Anchiano, Tuscany, from which his name derives. Leonardo da Vinci was apprenticed when he was 14 years old to renowned artist Andrea del Verrochio.
