How Does Machiavelli Characterize The Romans

Machiavelli, a most intelligent man who lived in Florence, wrote an opinionated handbook for princes (or soon to be princes) and the factor of referencing history is what he included to make his novel so much more reliable, supported, and legitimate.
He often alludes to the Romans, discusses the Carthaginians, and Hannibal. While discussing which principalities one should please, Machiavelli uses the Romans as his good example. They, without personal gain, settled in and supported some principalities, and crushed others. "The Romans, in the countries they seized, did watch these matters carefully. They established settlements, supported the weaker powers without increasing their strength, crushed the powerful, and did not allow any powerful
The example helps the reader effectively because it shows how effective the advice is when used in a real life occurrence and the outcome. The Carthaginians are mentioned when Machiavelli discusses his hatred and distrust in guns for hire. He even tells the reader what a good example they are. "The Carthaginians provide an example of reliance on mercenary arms in ancient times. They were very nearly subjugated by their mercenary troops, after the first war with the Romans was over,even though their own citizens held the positions of command."(Page 41) Mercenaries are deemed poisonous ("useless and dangerous") by Machiavelli. Not only are they useless and dangerous, the prince who hires them looks weak and incapable of leading his own people into battle. It would be preferred to have faithful and true army. Not only true to your leader but true to your principality and being able to fight with your heart. They were also lazy at night, and in the winter months. The Carthaginians "almost downfall" is enough to scare any new prince away from a hired mercenary. In the novel, Machiavelli has a famous discussion of