Niccolo Machiavelli Biography

Niccolo Machiavelli Biography

Full Name: Mr. Niccolò Machiavelli
Date of Birth: May 3, 1469
Place of Birth: Florence, Italy
Died: June 21, 1527
Place of Death: Florence, Italy
Classification: Scientists & Thinkers


Most famous for his work entitled The Prince, Niccolo Machiavelli and his philosophies have often been misinterpreted as amoral doctrines giving kings absolute power. In his works, he often alludes that necessity breeds action that can oftentimes be considered inhumane or evil. But, he argues, these actions are a necessary evil for the better good of a nation.

Young Niccolo grew up in an aristocratic family and was well educated. Not much is known about the type of education he received, but it is believed that he knew Latin and Greek, and had a deep knowledge of history, match, and philosophy. His works are quite reminiscent of Livy and Tacticus – both influenced his outlook on life.

Through some unknown connections or events, Machiavelli came as a virtually unknown name to become the chancellor and secretary of the second, which made him a diplomat over colonies and overseer of policies. While serving his post, he was able to write about all the happenings he encountered. He worked on a book entitled the First Ten Books of Titus Livius, his famed, The Prince, The Art of War, and The Life of Castruccio Castracani, along with three plays and other works in prose.

In his political works, he voiced his desire that the Spanish and French leave Italy forever. He knew this would only happen if a young, eager, and unyielding ruler united Italy against outside forces. Machiavelli, like Aristotle and Plato before him, believed that politics fell under the branch of moral studies. His style is said to be straightforward and hauntingly honest.

Machiavelli also saw how the church had tangled Italy and fogged their view of their own politics. Labeled a heretic and an atheist, his writings became more famous after his death. He modeled his own writings on what Rome had become – a state that gained imminence through one strong leader, but a people who were able to not always think of themselves and to see politics apart from religion. His works also influenced the formation of armies and the idea that the civilian should be self-sacrificing for the needs of a society.

When Machiavelli became the historian of Florence, his works told of the city’s troubles, conflicts, and dreams. He does not focus on blame or cause, but his works aim for the truth of all matters. His philosophical guides, axioms, and ideals helped the Italian nation find itself after it was finally united.