I believe that it is possible for one to praise, without concern, any man after he is dead since every reason and supervision for adulation is lacking.

The promise given was a necessity of the past: the word broken is a necessity of the present.

There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things.

Anyone who becomes master of a city accustomed to freedom and does not destroy it may expect to be destroyed by it; for such a city may always justify rebellion in the name of liberty and its ancient institutions.

I say that every prince must desire to be considered merciful and not cruel. He must, however, take care not to misuse this mercifulness.

the wise man should always follow the roads that have been trodden by the great, and imitate those who have most excelled, so that if he cannot reach their perfection, he may at least acquire something of its savour.

Make mistakes of ambition and not mistakes of sloth. Develop the strength to do bold things, not to suffer.