The reformer has enemies in all who profit by the old order, and only lukewarm defenders in all those who would profit by the new order.

For as good habits of the people require good laws to support them, so laws, to be observed, need good habits on the part of the people.

He who makes war his profession cannot be otherwise than vicious. War makes thieves, and peace brings them to the gallows.

Appear as you may wish to be

The peasant wants only to be left alone to prosper in peace.

Republics have a longer life and enjoy better fortune than principalities, because they can profit by their greater internal diversity. They are the better able to meet emergencies.

...it is a base thing to look to others for your defense instead of depending upon yourself. That defense alone is effectual, sure, and durable which depends upon yourself and your own valor.