Simplify the following text for a Grade 8 native English-speaking person.
Original: After Charles VIII of France invaded Florence in 1494 , the ruling Medici were overthrown and Savonarola emerged as the new leader of the city , combining in himself the role of leader and priest .
Simplified: After Charles VIII of France invaded Florence in 1494 , the ruling Medici were removed . Savonarola became the new leader of the city , both as a secular leader and priest .