Niccolo Machiavelli was an Italian of many professions, including history, politics, philosophy and humanism. During the Renaissance period, he was based in Florence, and for so many years was a high ranker in the Florentine Republic. He is regarded as the father of modern political theory because of his logical wisdom.

There is an endless wealth of knowledge to learn from Machiavelli. The most compelling to us, was his argument against religion. We are not against religion by any means, in fact – we encourage it. However, Machiavelli felt that religion made people lazy when it came to their fate. Imagine people who refuse to apply to a job because they think God will figure it out for them. Or someone who doesn’t want to exercise or eat right because God will take care of their body. You are in charge of your fate. Nobody else. Your decisions and actions are small steps to take on the way to being your best. When at your best, you will be ready to fulfill whatever your purpose may be in this life. It’s on you.

The Life of a Philosopher

Machiavelli was on May 3, 1469 in Italy, Florence to be specific. His birth was during a turbulent time in Italy, as popes were waging conflicts versus city-states in Italy. Even bordering countries, such as France and Spain, were battling for control. Despite this, Machiavelli was given a well-rounded education, enough to allow him to become an abundant writer. He became the secretary of the Ten in 1498.

He was in charge of the militia from 1503 to 1506. His philosophy of not trusting mercenaries at the time sprouted from this and held fast. Machiavelli managed to reign victorious against Pisa. This was in 1509. Three years later, however, Pope Julius II helped the Medici to win against the Florentines. As a result, Piero Soderini resigned and went into exile, with the city-state of Florentine being dissolved along with the Republic.

In 1513, the Medici removed Machiavelli from office and a year later accused him of conspiracy, leading to his eventual arrest and period of imprisonment. He pleaded innocent and was set free later on. Machiavelli returned to his land at Sant’Andrea and immersed himself to the study of politics and philosophy to his heart’s content. His studies earned him a place in the progress of philosophy and conduct in a politician’s view.

Even though he had the chance to stay on the front line of political matters, Machiavelli chose instead to write plays which made him quite popular. Eventually the lure of politics drew him back, and he found himself keeping correspondence with acquaintances in politics. He wrote many books concerning philosophy, and was considered a hero because of them.

The Death of Machiavelli

Machiavelli died on June 21, 1527 when he was at the ripe age of 58 after a decline in his health. His family buried him at the Church of Santa Croce.

Trivia about Machiavelli

• His family was believed to have been descended from the marquesses of Tuscany.
• His best book was called II Principe, which highlighted the wisdom of a new prince in power and how it could be used effectively.
• He believed in the wisdom that virtuous living does not always bring happiness.
• The main enemies against his writings were the clergy.
• Many religious men considered his writings of wisdom to be completely diabolical.
• His experience with religion during the earlier part of his life led him to often criticize Christianity, particularly how it affected social and political situations. He thought it accepted too many imaginary ideals as reality and caused people to be lazy about their own fates.

He is considered a hero because of his part in the wars against the popes and for his writings, which inspired a higher form of thinking. May you always think before you speak like Machiavelli did and may you inspire others and demand a higher form of thinking.