In the 16th century, political unrest was common throughout Europe. Although Bourbon initially supported his king, a lack of money led to him fleeing his country to favor his cousin, the Holy Roman Emperor. Bourbon was a strong military leader, but his choice to use mercenary troops had its drawbacks. They were not understanding of his situation when he didn't have the money to pay them. Unlike national troops, many soldiers didn't possess loyalty to their country, but fought only for wealth. The fierceness of the troops led to Bourbon's decision to attack a sacred city and ultimately caused his death. Bourbon attacked Rome, the capital of Catholicism. Many of Rome's citizenry were killed, and many others fled. Rome's cathedrals, monuments, and peoples' homes were destroyed and looted. The city was left in disarray for months. As many of Rome's artists fled the city, the current Renaissance culture began to decline.