Power is the pivot on which everything hinges. He who has the power is always right; the weaker is always wrong.

The one who adapts his policy to the times prospers, and likewise that the one whose policy clashes with the demands of the times does not.

Many have imagined republics and principalities which have never been seen or known to exist in reality; for how we live is so far removed from how we ought to live, that he who abandons what is done for what ought to be done, will rather bring about his own ruin than his preservation.

Present wars impoverish the lords that win as much as those that lose.

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

Hatred is gained as much by good works as by evil.

....for friendships that are acquired by a price and not by greatness and nobility of character are purchased but are not owned, and at the proper moment they cannot be spent.