Summary : Le Prince

All states and dominions that hold sway over mankind are classified strictly as either republics or principalities. Principalities themselves are further divided into two primary categories being either hereditary, where the ruling family has governed for a long duration, or entirely new. These new territories can either be completely new foundations, such as Milan was under Francesco Sforza, or they can function as annexed members added to the preexisting hereditary states of the acquiring ruler, comparable to the kingdom of Naples in relation to the king of Spain. Before their acquisition, these governed territories typically existed under two distinct conditions by being accustomed to living either under the rule of a single prince or entirely free. Furthermore, the actual acquisition of these states occurs through several specific methods. A ruler may seize them utilizing the military arms of others, or they may conquer them through their own personal forces. Alternatively, possession can be achieved primarily through the unpredictable favor of fortune or through the innate personal virtue and capability of the acquirer.

All the states and dominions that hold or have held sway over men are and have been either republics or principalities. Principalities are divided into two main categories, being either hereditary, where the governing family has long held power, or entirely new. New principalities can be completely new creations, such as Milan was for Francesco Sforza, or they can function as newly acquired territories annexed to the hereditary states of the ruling prince, comparable to how the kingdom of Naples was added to the domains of the king of Spain. These acquired territories differ fundamentally in their prior political traditions. Before annexation, the populations within these states were accustomed either to living under the rule of a prince or to enjoying absolute freedom. Furthermore, the methods by which a ruler gains control over these dominions vary significantly. Acquisition can be achieved through the arms of others, through the conqueror's own military force, by means of fortune, or through the power of personal virtue.