The Prince

He who has not first laid his foundations may be able with great ability to lay them afterwards, but they will be laid with trouble to the architect and danger to the building.

A wise prince ought to observe some such rules, and never in peaceful times stand idle, but increase his resources with industry in such a way that they may be available to him in adversity.

For the above reasons, it is impossible to hold with such tranquillity states constituted like that of France.

He who becomes master of a city accustomed to freedom and does not destroy it, may expect to be destroyed by it.

It is necessary, therefore, if we desire to discuss this matter thoroughly, to inquire whether these innovators can rely on themselves or have to depend on others.

He who has relied least on fortune is established the strongest.

The chief foundations of all states, new as well as old or composite, are good laws and good arms.

The arms of others either fall from your back, or they weigh you down, or they bind you fast.

A wise prince ought to keep his citizens united and loyal, and above all things, he must keep the people satisfy.

By arming them, those arms become yours.