He who has annexed them, if he wishes to hold them, has…
“He who has annexed them, if he wishes to hold them, has only to bear in mind two considerations: the one, that the family of their former lord is extinguished; the other, that neither their laws nor their taxes are altered, so that in a very short time they will become entirely one body with the old principality.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
To keep conquered lands, preserve the former ruler’s family and maintain existing laws and taxes, allowing smooth integration into the new regime.
In simple terms: Keep the old family and laws to ease rule.
Key Takeaway
Preserve familiar structures after conquest.
Themes
politics
control
integration
Mood
strategic
cautious
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- colonial administration
- corporate mergers
- organizational change
- post‑conflict governance
Key Concepts
Realpolitik
statecraft
legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders balance continuity and reform?
- What risks arise from preserving old elites?
A Different Perspective
People may resist any change, even subtle, leading to unrest.