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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

"Men rise from one ambition to another, first they seek to secure themselves against attack, and then they attack others"

Human nature Ambition Power Human behavior

"A prudent man should always follow in the path trodden by great men and imitate those who are most excellent"

Inspiration Wisdom Success Leadership

"One change always leaves the way open for the establishment of others."

Growth Change Transformation Progress

"Men in general judge more from appearances than from reality. All men have eyes, but few have the gift of penetration."

Wisdom Perception Human nature Reality

"There is no avoiding war; it can only be postponed to the advantage of others."

Strategy History Conflict Politics

"It is double pleasure to deceive the deceiver."

Irony Deception Pleasure Karma

"He who wishes to deceive will never fail to find willing dupes."

Human nature Psychology Ethics Society

"The main foundations of every state, new states as well as ancient or composite ones, are good laws and good arms"

Government Governance Political philosophy Military

"The vulgar crowd always is taken by appearances, and the world consists chiefly of the vulgar"

Philosophy Perception Human nature Society

"The prince must consider, as has been in part said before, how to avoid such scandal and hatred as would cost him the affection of the people"

Leadership Governance Public perception Political strategy

"One who deceives will always find those who allow themselves to be deceived"

Belief Trust Deception Manipulation

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

Change Truth Integrity Trust

"It is not titles that honor men, but men that honor titles"

Leadership Responsibility Integrity Values

"Politics have no relation to morals"

Philosophy Ethics Morality Power

"Where the willingness is great, the difficulties cannot be great"

Motivation Resilience Perseverance Determination

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