Machiavelli books should ALWAYS be read to an eye to what was going on in Italian Politics at the time.
Smallish city-states constantly at War with each other, for everything from each others lands, percieved slights, or even just to merely fight.
Much of this was ENCOURAGED by the Church, which saw the Unification of Italy under a single leadership as a threat to it’s own power and sway.
I would agree. We read “The Prince” in our World Lit class in H.S., and again, some parts in our Humanities class.
As far as inspiring leaders - well, some could argue that to read these books - Mein Kampf, and The Communist Manifesto for example - might give someone insight as to how to fight AGAINST such things within the world. And, perhaps also give advance warning of things to come when certain people come on the “world stage” (thinking of Chavez here...).
Anyway, interesting list. Haven’t read any of them personally though except “The Prince”.
My sister-in-law actually gave me Dr. Spock’s book when I had my first child. I think I perhaps read one or two chapters, and proceeded to throw it out! LOL “Spock is a crock!”