Final answer:
Machiavelli argues that destroying a former republic is necessary for a conquering prince to retain control.
Explanation:
The text evidence from Machiavelli's 'The Prince' supports his primary purpose of persuading readers that a conquering prince must destroy a former republic to hold it:
- the explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia: Rome dismantled these conquered cities to maintain control.
- the description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics: Machiavelli underscores that liberated cities pose a threat to conquerors.
- the portrayal of Greece as being held by Sparta: Demonstrates the challenges of maintaining control over liberated territories.
Learn more about Machiavelli's 'The Prince' here:
https://brainly.com/question/33841919