An important theme in understanding the history of European politics from the time of the Roman Empire to Adolf Hitler, including the time of Machiavelli, is the irresistibility of empire. The role of Charles 8th of France in unbalancing Italian politics was already mentioned in part 1. Finally, Machiavelli studied the machinations of Cesare Borgia, the illegitimate son of Rodrigo (Pope Alexander 6th). Originally encouraged by his father to follow in his footsteps after being made a cardinal upon Rodrigo's election as pope, Cesare resigned from the cardinalate after the death of his brother. And Machiavelli has laid down the principles, based upon his study and wide experience, by which this may be accomplished."

Source: Manila Times May 13, 2022 04:05 UTC