As the name gained traction through shakur’s influence, it began to symbolize resilience and the pursuit of truth through art. Makaveli was derived from the famed italian philosopher niccolò machiavelli, known for his renowned treatise, the prince. Makaveli's impact on hip hop culture was profound, as he helped elevate the genre from underground music to mainstream success.
Originating from the enigmatic figure of niccolò machiavelli and transformed by the iconic tupac shakur, “makaveli” stands as a unique blend of intellectual strategy and contemporary artistry. In essence, the alias makaveli encapsulated 2pac's evolution as an artist and as a cultural figure. To understand why tupac used makaveli, we must delve into the persona's origins and the philosophical ideas that guided tupac's artistic expression.
His music was often described as a reflection of the hardships he had faced growing up in poverty, and he often tackled social issues such as racism, gang violence, and poverty in his lyrics. The resistance to the influence of the prince was illustrated when the vatican banned it during machiavelli’s lifetime (it was reproduced under different guises). He emphasizes the importance of deception, manipulation, and strategic thinking. Machiavelli has his own unique conception of religion that merges with his political philosophy.
Celebrating 26 years since the release of tupac’s album “the don killuminati: The 7 day theory,” under his makaveli alias, the official 2pac instagram account shares an explanation as to why tupac adopted the name. This added a layer of mystique and symbolism to his persona, fueling rumors and theories about his continued influence even after his passing. The name “makaveli” seamlessly marries historical depth with modern cultural impact.
In light of the research and informed reinterpretation, this paper will argue that machiavelli conceives of a practical religion that can be used to maintain authority through spectacle and ritual, instil good virtues in the citizens of a state, and. In his book the prince, machiavelli explores the nature of power and politics, offering advice on how to acquire and maintain it. Tupac, as makaveli, adopted this ideology to convey a deeper message through his music.