Prince

The Prince is a book in the form of a study in political philosophy, written by Niccolò Machiavelli in 1553. It is considered his most famous work, and the term "Machiavellianism" and the adjective "Machiavellian" originated from it. It is a work that does not belong to any specific genre because it lacks the characteristics of genuine scientific research. Therefore, it is considered a pamphlet with an informative and educational tone. Since its appearance in the 16th century, this small book has been the subject of much debate. It is said that Mussolini would not sleep until he had read Machiavelli‘s The Prince, and it is also said that Napoleon and Hitler used it as a reference for their policies. This is due to the book‘s unparalleled stature. The book presents theories on governance and principality, and answers questions that have long preoccupied rulers and princes, such as: How are inherited lands governed? What are the different types of power and how are they acquired? How does a leader control his people? And how were religious and secular principalities governed? The book sparked widespread controversy, with many criticizing it as incitement to oppress and humiliate peoples, while others considered it a guide to the treachery and deceit employed by princes against their subjects. The author dedicated it to the Italian prince Lorenzo de‘ Medici.