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Niccolo Machiavelli

Political philosopher

1469–1527

Biography

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527) was an Italian diplomat, philosopher, and writer best known for his political treatise "The Prince." Written in 1513, this seminal work offers pragmatic advice for rulers on power politics and statecraft. Machiavelli's other notable work, "Discourses on Livy," examines the structure and benefits of republican government. During his career, he served as a senior official in the Florentine Republic, notably handling diplomatic and military affairs. His role in the militia and his efforts to reorganize Florence's defenses stand out among his accomplishments. Machiavelli's practical and often controversial insights into political power continue to be studied and debated.

About

Born May 3, 1469

Died June 21, 1527

Birthplace Florence, Republic of Florence (now Italy)

Nationality Italian

Education Self-educated

Resting Place Florence, Italy

Popular Quotes

"The more sand has escaped from the hourglass of our life, the clearer we should see through it"

Philosophy Wisdom Life Perspective

"Severities should be dealt out all at once"

Leadership Discipline Strategy Decision-making

"A battle that you win cancels any plan"

Strategy Conflict Adaptability Planning

"He who neglects what is done for what ought"

Motivation Philosophy Self-improvement Wisdom

"It is much safer to be feared than loved"

Philosophy Love Leadership Fear

"Since love and fear can hardly exist together"

Philosophy Love Relationships Human nature

"A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise"

Leadership Ethics Morality Power

"God creates men, but they choose each other"

Relationships Spirituality Faith Connection

"The one who adapts his policy to the times prospers, and likewise that the one whose policy clashes with the demands of the times does not"

Success Leadership Change Strategy

"He who builds on the people builds on mud"

Leadership Society Trust Power

"If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared"

Leadership Fear Power Strategy

"Everyone sees what you appear to be, few experience what you really are"

Perception Identity Authenticity Truth

"The promise given was a necessity of the past; the word broken is a necessity of the present"

Relationships Change Truth Trust

"He who becomes a Prince through the favor of the people should always keep on good terms with them"

Relationships Leadership Power Politics

"There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things"

Courage Leadership Innovation Change