Niccolò Machiavelli remains one of history’s most controversial thinkers. His name has become synonymous with cunning, manipulation, and ruthless politics — but was he really the villain many imagine? In this episode of History Unpacked, we dive into the life and legacy of Machiavelli, exploring his role in Renaissance Florence, his most famous work The Prince, and his lasting impact on politics, philosophy, and leadership. From misunderstood statesman to “father of modern political thought,” Machiavelli continues to shape how we think about power.