There are two types of states: republics and principalities. Machiavelli declares that he will not discuss republics, examining only how principalities may be acquired and governed. Principalities are inherited or new.
New principalities are either annexed to a ruler’s existing territory or are completely new. New principalities are either used to being ruled by a prince or are used to being free. New principalities are acquired by luck or by strength.
Hereditary principalities, which are used to being ruled by the prince’s family, are easy to maintain, because tradition keeps the prince’s position stable as long as he does not make himself hated.
