A primer on campaigning in ancient Rome that reads like a strategy memo from a modern political consultant
How to Win an Election is an ancient Roman guide for campaigning that is as up-to-date as tomorrow’s headlines. In 64 BC when idealist Marcus Cicero, Rome’s greatest orator, ran for consul (the highest office in the Republic), his practical brother Quintus decided he needed some no-nonsense advice on running a successful campaign. What follows in his short letter are timeless bits of political wisdom, from the importance of promising everything to everybody and reminding voters about the sexual scandals of your opponents to being a chameleon, putting on a good show for the masses, and constantly surrounding yourself with rabid supporters. Presented here in a lively and colorful new translation, with the Latin text on facing pages, this unashamedly pragmatic primer on the humble art of personal politicking is dead-on (Cicero won)—and as relevant today as when it was written.
A little-known classic in the spirit of Machiavelli’s Prince, How to Win an Election is required reading for politicians and everyone who enjoys watching them try to manipulate their way into office.
About the author
Philip Freeman is the author of many books, includingOh My Gods: A Modern Retelling of Greek and
Roman Myths, Alexander the Great, and
Julius Caesar (all Simon & Schuster). He received his Ph D from Harvard University and holds the Qualley Chair of Classical Languages at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.
More ebooks from the same author(s) / Editor
112,869 Ebooks in this category
