Niccolo Machiavelli was born in Florence on May 3, 1469. While working as a clerk in the government, he gained stature when the Florentine Republic was established in 1498. Machiavelli supervised the military operations of the republic. He also was the secretary of the ten-man council that conducted the diplomatic negotiations. During his tenor in the government, Machiavelli became acquainted with many of the Italian rulers and their political tactics. From 1503 to 1506, Machiavelli reorganized the military defense of the republic of Florence. The Medici family took control of the republic in 1512, and Machiavelli was arrested for conspiring against them after more than a decade of public service. After his release, he retired to his estate near Florence where he wrote many of his political writings.
Machiavelli's writing forever changed political views. His ideas of doing anything no matter how extreme for a ruler's state where new but are still used today by some. He was the first to rationally examine the ways to control politics. Machiavelli believes that a ruler should have his state's concern his foremost priority. The state is founded on the power of its military. Therefore, a strong military is vital to maintaining the state. Machiavelli believes that men respect power but will take advantage of kindness. He believes that when given the opportunity one must destroy completely, because if one does not then he will be destroyed. The ruler should lead the military, and he has to be intelligent. An effective politician can make quick and intelligent choices about the problems that constantly surround him
All papers and essays are for research and reference purposes only!
Copyright 2002-2009
Direct Essays , LLC. All Rights Reserved. DMCA Webmasters make $$$$