Affair Quote by Niccolo Machiavelli
“From the latter he is defended by being well armed and having good allies, and if he is well armed he will have good friends, and affairs will always remain quiet within when they are quiet without, unless they should have been already disturbed by conspiracy; and even should affairs outside be disturbed, if he has carried out his preparations and has lived as I have said, as long as he does not despair, he will resist every attack.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Prince, 1532
A ruler who maintains strong defenses and reliable allies can keep peace inside as long as external threats are managed, provided he remains prepared and hopeful.
In simple terms: Strong defenses and allies keep peace if prepared and hopeful.
Key Takeaway
Build defenses, nurture allies, stay hopeful.
Themes
politics
leadership
security
preparation
resilience
Mood
determined
cautious
strategic
Type
advice
historical
political
When to use this quote
- governing a city-state
- military planning
- crisis management
- building alliances
Key Concepts
statecraft
deterrence
social stability
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure allies remain loyal?
- What preparations are essential for unexpected crises?
A Different Perspective
If allies betray or defenses fail, peace may still be lost.
