Published: June 10, 2007, 9:49 p.m.
Niccolo Machiavelli was a political and military philosopher around
1500AD in Florence, Italy during the Italian Renaissance. His name is
associated with shrewd, cunning rule. His most famous work, The
Prince, features many tips for princes to conquer territory (whether it
is decentralized, or centralized):
- Destroy the previous hereditary line
- Attack the strong, leave the weak
- Act unilaterally
- Live in the conquered territory
- Send in colonists rather than soldiers
- Commit all crimes simultaneously
Machiavelli's perfect "Prince" has a military background and extensive
knowledge in history, specifically military history. The Prince should
cultivate a loyal local militia, rather than having to rely on
mercenaries or auxiliaries. Large military campaigns should be
conducted frequently in order to distract the populace.
For more information, read:
The Prince by Machiavelli
The Art of War by Machiavelli
http://www.press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/500403.html
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