Final answer:
Machiavelli's thoughts on whether a leader should be feared or loved were influenced by witnessing Savonarola's demise as a leader.
Step-by-step explanation:
Machiavelli witnessing Savonarola's demise as a leader had a significant impact on his thoughts regarding whether a leader should be feared or loved. Before witnessing Savonarola's downfall, Machiavelli believed that a leader should be loved by the people in order to maintain power. However, after seeing the consequences of Savonarola's rule and his ultimate demise, Machiavelli recognized that being loved is not always enough to ensure a leader's success. He concluded that a leader should be feared rather than loved, as fear of punishment and consequences can help maintain control and deter threats to their leadership.