Niccolò Machiavelli, also known as “Makaveli,” was a 16th-century Italian political philosopher who emphasized the practicalities of acquiring and maintaining power in politics. His writings, particularly “The Prince,” advocated for political pragmatism, arguing that rulers must sometimes resort to deception, amorality, and even violence to achieve their goals effectively. Machiavelli’s ideas have had a lasting impact on political thought and are often used to characterize individuals who are cunning, manipulative, and willing to do whatever it takes to gain or maintain power.