The Prince is a famous guidebook written over 500 years ago about how to gain and keep political power. It was written by Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian diplomat who wanted to advise a new ruler. The book gives practical, and sometimes harsh, advice, suggesting that a leader must sometimes be feared rather than loved to stay in control. It is known for the idea that 'the ends justify the means,' meaning achieving a good goal can make tough actions acceptable.