The Prince is a political treatise by Niccolò Machiavelli that offers practical advice on ruling and governance. Written in the early 16th century, the book provides a realistic analysis of power, politics, and statecraft, emphasizing the importance of pragmatism and strategic thinking. Machiavelli’s work is known for its candid examination of political maneuvering and the often harsh realities of maintaining power. The book’s exploration of political ethics, leadership, and realpolitik has made it a foundational text in political theory and a subject of extensive debate and interpretation.