The Handbook for Leaders The Prince is often regarded as the first true leadership book. It shocked contemporary readers with its ruthless call for fearless and effective action. With simple prose and straightforward logic, Machiavelli's guide still has the power to surprise and inform anyone hoping to make their way in the world.

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527) was a Florentine diplomat, political philosopher, and writer. Best known for "The Prince", he is considered the father of modern political science. A "vita" (biography) of him in English is widely available; "The Life of Niccolò Machiavelli" by Roberto Ridolfi is a classic scholarly work.