Men are so stupid and concerned with their present needs, they will always let themselves be deceived.

For a prince should have two fears: one, internal concerning his subjects; the other, external, concerning foreign powers. From the latter he can always defend himself by his good troops and friends; and he will always have good friends if he has good troops.

Men are more ready to offend one who desires to be beloved than one who wishes to be feared.

Wise men say, and not without reason, that whosoever wished to foresee the future might consult the past.

Any harm you do to a man should be done in such a way that you need not fear his revenge.

To ensure victory the troops must have confidence in themselves as well as in their commanders.

For he who innovates will have for his enemies all those who are well off under the existing order of things, and only lukewarm supporters in those who might be better off under the new.