"This return of Republics back to their principles also results from the simple virtue of one man, without depending on any law that excites him to any execution: none the less, they are of such influence and example that good men desire to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life contrary to those examples."

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Added on April 10, 2026
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Original Language: English

Sources

Book 3, Ch. 1

https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Niccol%C3%B2_Machiavelli