The Republic of Florence prospered heavily in the 1400s. Following a number of deals with Italy, Florence strengthened its relations with much of the Italian Peninsula and its neighbors, including Milan, Genoa, the Papal States, and Venice. Deals with Castille and Aragon were also created in order to expand the Florentine economy and provide protection for the nation. Relations with Venice, with whom Florence had battled in previous years, were greatly improved for the common good of the Italian nations, including Florence and Venice.