What renaissance writer applied humanistic principles to government?

Niccolò Machiavelli is a key Renaissance writer who applied humanistic principles to government. In his seminal work, "The Prince," he emphasized the importance of pragmatic and often secular approaches to political power and leadership. Machiavelli's ideas shifted the focus from medieval religious doctrines to the realities of human behavior and the complexities of political life, laying the groundwork for modern political theory. His work reflects the humanistic belief in the potential and agency of individuals in shaping their political destinies.