“Before all else, be armed.”
- May 3, 1469 – June 21, 1527
- Born in the Republic of Florence (Italy)
- Political thinker and diplomat
- Wrote The Prince, built the foundations of modern political science, and advocated realist political thought
Quote
“Before all else, be armed.”
Explanation
This concise yet powerful statement from Niccolò Machiavelli underscores the central importance of military power and self-defense for anyone in a position of leadership, particularly a prince or ruler. The phrase suggests that, before pursuing other virtues or strategies, the most fundamental priority is to ensure that one has the means to protect themselves and their state. For Machiavelli, being armed means not only having physical weapons but also the broader capacity to defend one’s authority, whether through military strength, alliances, or other means of securing one’s rule. The notion of “being armed” is a metaphor for power, emphasizing that without it, any other efforts or ambitions are likely to be undermined by external threats or internal rebellion.
This emphasis on armament ties into Machiavelli’s broader political philosophy, where he asserts that a ruler’s ability to maintain control over their state and to respond to challenges is closely tied to their capacity to project power. In The Prince, Machiavelli advises rulers to maintain strong, loyal armies and to avoid relying too heavily on mercenaries or external forces, as these can be unreliable. In his view, a ruler must be able to defend their position and respond to threats decisively. The idea is that without force, a ruler’s credibility, authority, and security are compromised, making them vulnerable to dissatisfaction, rebellion, or external invasion.
In modern times, the concept of being “armed” can be applied more broadly. In international relations, a nation must maintain military readiness and strategic alliances to deter adversaries and defend its interests. In business, having the right resources, capital, and infrastructure (i.e., being “armed” in a metaphorical sense) is crucial for sustaining growth, competing in the market, and protecting against competitors or market shifts. On a personal level, being “armed” could refer to having the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to navigate challenges in one’s life or career. Whether through military, financial, or intellectual means, Machiavelli’s quote highlights the need for readiness and the proactive accumulation of power and resources before undertaking other endeavors.
