What was the point of discourses on livy by Machiavelli?

Discourses on Livy was written as a commentary to Livy's work on the history of ancient Rome in Ab Urbe condita and explains the structure and benefits of a republic. It is comprised of three "books": Book I focuses on a republic's internal structure, Book II discusses warfare, and Book III addresses individual leadership. Together, these three parts also serve as a guide to those trying to establish a republic.