Machiavelli as political prognosticator

[RecycleMichael]

I was re-reading "The Prince", and a paragraph stood out to me.

For those unfamiliar with his writings, he tried to determine the best way to govern effectively.  

Niccolo Machiavelli (1469–1527).  

"And the usual course of things is that so soon as a formidable stranger enters a Province, all the weaker powers side with him, moved thereto by the ill-will they bear towards him who has hitherto kept them in subjection.

So that in respect of these lesser powers, no trouble is needed to gain them over, for at once, together, and of their own accord, they throw in their lot with the government of the stranger.

The new Prince, therefore, has only to see that they do not increase too much in strength, and with his own forces, aided by their good will, can easily subdue any who are powerful, so as to remain supreme in the Province.

He who does not manage this matter well, will soon lose whatever he has gained, and while he retains it will find in it endless troubles and annoyances".