A wise prince will seek means by which his subjects will always and in every possible condition of things have need of his government, and then they will always be faithful to him.

One should never allow chaos to develop in order to avoid going to war, because one does not avoid a war but instead puts it off to his disadvantage

For one change always leaves a dovetail into which another will fit.

Only those means of security are good, are certain, are lasting, that depend on yourself and your own vigor.

A wise man will see to it that his acts always seem voluntary and not done by compulsion, however much he may be compelled by necessity.

Occasionally words must serve to veil the facts. But let this happen in such a way that no one become aware of it; or, if it should be noticed, excuses must be at hand to be produced immediately.

The innovator has for enemies all who have done well under the old, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new.