"A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example."
Niccolo Machiavelli was an Italian political philosopher, diplomat, and writer of the Renaissance. He is best known for The Prince and the Discourses on Livy. His work shaped later political theory and statecraft debates.