In this article Danoff, compares multiple viewpoints of the Lincolns presidency to Machiavelli principles. Lincoln exercised what he deemed necessary to save the union at a time of great crisis in the country. This compares to Machiavelli and his circle who hoped a unified Italy would maintain itself. Lincoln suspended habeas corpus, stating it was his duty to preserve the constitution. Lincoln used Machiavelli principle to executive power, stating if trends continued the union would eventually fall due to slavery. He did not want the issue of slavery to become more important than the rights granted in the constitution. Lincoln tiredly tried to preserve the union, while upholding the constitution and used Machiavelli principles to do so. Danoff