2016-05-03 Tue

Italian diplomat, Niccolo Machiavelli was born on 3rd may 1469. This multi-talented man was not just a diplomat but also an Italian Renaissance historian, politician, philosopher, humanist, and a writer.

Machiavelli was born in a chaotic era, where the society and the politics were controlled by the clergy. The disturbed conditions of this time left a great influence on his life. Being born in the family of an attorney, it helped to develop his thought process.

Niccolo was a diplomat for 14 years in Italy's Florentine Republic. During this time, he witnessed the brutal reality of stat building prevalent during this time.

He is best known for his book “The Prince” which he wrote while he was in exile. The main theme of this short work was about monarchical rule and survival. This work of his has been regarded as a handbook for politicians and inspired the term "Machiavellian."

In addition to The Prince, Machiavelli wrote the treatise On the Art of War and several poems and plays, including “The Mandrake”- a satirical play which he wrote towards the end of his life.

Today he is known as the father of modern Political science and has been honoured worldwide.

Post Italy issued a stamp with the value of 15 Lira. The stamp issued in the year of 1932 features his portrait. Post Italy issued another stamp in 1969 to celebrate the 500th year of his birth.

Moreover, on the occasion of the 5th centennial year of this book i.e. in the 1913 Republic of San Marino issued a Silver proof coin of €10 depicting his portrait on the obverse. A stamp with the value of €4 featuring Niccolo Machiavelli also was issued as a part of souvenir sheet with portraits of eight famous people in the history.