His motives are still debated by scholars: One source says:
"In 1512, Niccolo Machiavelli was accused of conspiracy against the Medici family and exiled from Florence. While in exile, Machiavelli decided he wanted to make the most of his expulsion and write a political work called The Prince. This political essay explained a series of supposedly effective ways in which someone could successfully rule. On the surface, it appears that Machiavelli genuinely wanted to help the Medici family effectively rule Florence. The Prince gives political advice to influential individuals on how to obtain and maintain power. Considering the Medici’s political status, such advice is particularly applicable to their family. In addition, Machiavelli dedicated the book to Lorenzo de Medici, giving the impression that the book was targeted toward the Medici family." http://bit.ly/1efnUn2 |
Machiavelli did not invent "might is right". This is the way dictators see how they should rule.
The historical context was a time of war, with one powerful group trying to destroy the other. Machievelli was caught in the middle and to save his life had to make a decision. Had it not been for the fact the French invaded Florence, and the Pope's army took back the city, this book may never have been written.
His idea greatly impacted dictators. It is said different leaders, like Napoleon, and Hitler had copies of this book. Each translated the ideas to fit their own political agenda.