Answer :
In Machiavelli's passage from chapter 5 of "The Prince," he argues that a conquering prince must destroy a former republic if he hopes to hold it. Here are three text evidence supporting this idea:
1. The explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia: Machiavelli points out that Rome, in order to hold these cities, dismantled them and did not lose control over them. This illustrates his belief that to maintain power over conquered territories, a prince must take drastic measures, including destruction if necessary.
2. The description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics: Machiavelli emphasizes that cities accustomed to freedom will use liberty as a rallying point in rebellion against a new ruler. This highlights the challenge a conquering prince faces in dealing with the inherent desire for independence in republics, suggesting that destruction may be required to prevent rebellion.
3. The example of the Florentines losing control over Pisa: While not explicitly mentioned in the given passage, the reference to the Florentines losing control over Pisa serves as an additional illustration of Machiavelli's point. It underscores the consequences of failing to take decisive actions, such as destruction, to assert and maintain authority over a former republic.
By analyzing these aspects of the text, it becomes evident that Machiavelli's primary purpose is to persuade readers that a conquering prince must be willing to destroy a former republic in order to effectively control and retain power over it.