Summary:
According to Niccolo Machiavelli's The Prince, two of the most important local factors for a foreign ruler to consider when trying to maintain power after conquering a land are the employment of loyal, native troops and the consideration of cultural differences. Machiavelli considered both of these factors to be very important in determining the success of the prince or king. Machiavelli's writings and interpretation of leadership serve as crucial pieces of history because they shaped the history of Renaissance Europe as we know it today.
Many factors went into determining whether or not a prince or king was successful or not. Some of these factors were simple things such as the king's personality or the method by which he comes to power. Niccolo Machiavelli wrote this book as a guide for Lorenzo Medici to become a good ruler. He describes these factors, but attributes most leaders' achievements to their taking advantage of local circumstances. Machiavelli attributes military victory to having a strong army composed of native soldiers and strongly discourages using a mercenary army. The availability of soldiers is a local circumstance that can result in victory or defeat for a king. Another important local factor that can determine a thriving leader involves the land that is conquered. Machiavelli sheds light on the subject when he discusses tactics to be employed.....
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