I’m a big proponent of The Prince, by Machiavelli. He generalizes and advises on a large number of issues that a prince, as in principal whether king or president or premier, must do in different phases and stages of his reign, politically and militarily, to stay in power and thrive.
For example, he discusses in general the fact that every ruler is torn between the demands of the people and the demands of the elite. When the elite get too strong they can oppress the people but when if the people get too strong you can have a reign of terror, so it’s the princes job to manage that.
Under an oppressive ruler, a small favor means much.
With spoiled masses, great acts are not appreciated
For example, he discusses in general the fact that every ruler is torn between the demands of the people and the demands of the elite. When the elite get too strong they can oppress the people but when if the people get too strong you can have a reign of terror, so it’s the princes job to manage that.
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Excellent point. French revolution comes to mind. Mob rule was no better than what it replaced.