In Chapter One, Machiavelli lets it be known that all states that have ever held power over others have either been republics of monarchies. These monarchies are either hereditary, or are new monarchies. These states that are taken are either accustomed to rule of a monarch, or are former free states that are taken by force of arms, or obtained through good fortune. But we still need an explanation of what these monarchies really are.

In the second chapter Machiavelli goes into detail on hereditary monarchies. A hereditary monarchy is much easier to maintain than a new monarchy. With a hereditary monarchy a lot of rules have already been set. You simply step in and maintain them. You don't want to go past boundaries set by family in the past, and because your family has been in

Chapter twenty-five shows us that those who base their rule solely on fortune are in for a rude awakening when the tide changes. However a risk taker fares better when tides change. Fortune is a woman, and if you want to get her you have to be willing to go out on a limb. If you want to keep the power you must go out on that limb too. It is a calling. Not just anyone can be a prince.

power for a long time you can look and see what problems may be ahead, and protect yourself accordingly.

When a prince comes to power through the favor of his fellow citizens many things can happen. You can be brought to favor by the aristocracy or by the populace. If the elite's place you as the head to satisfy the masses you must realize that they will consider themselves your equals. While all the populace wants when they put you in power is the feeling that they will not be oppressed. You see, the elite want to oppress, while the masses fight to not let themselves be oppressed. Machiavelli does say that it is necessary to posses the friendship of the people. They will be your main resource when times are tough. Their feelings are good gauge of the worth of the leader.

Is it purposeful to have a fortress? Chapter twenty deals with this question. A fortress is only a good thing to have if you are protecting yourself from the masses. A fortress does no good against foreign enemies. The best fortress is through the love of your people. If they love you, penetrating that love will be a measurable task. It will also lead to how your people see you.

In Chapter sixteen Machiavelli poses the question of whether it is better to be liberal, or niggardly. Liberality injure many and helps few, yet it is popular among rulers. However if he does the exact opposite of this he will be considered niggardly. With this in mind a prince must have no problem being referred to as a miser. For it will keep him from robbing his subjects. And though it is niggardliness, it is what will enable him to reign over his people. Keep this in mind: spending the wealth of others will not diminish your reputation, but increase it, only spending your own money will hurt you.

When a territory is obtained through a treacherous or villainous act the new prince is asking for trouble. He may be able to obtain power but not glory. For as long as he rules he will not gain the trust of the people. No matter how good a ruler you might be the villainous acts that led to your power hamper you from being a famous leader.

When choosing those around you choose carefully. The first impression people get of you is by the people you surround yourself with. These people will assist you in all you do. You must treat them accordingly. Bestow honors on them. They are your most important allies.

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