Lao Tzu and Machiavelli arrive in Birmingham, Alabama approximately on April 9, 1963, a few days prior to Martin Luther King Jr.’s arrest. Upon arrival these ancient politicians witness first hand African American segregation and social injustice. In this situation and the beliefs Lao Tzu and Machiavelli both possess, if Dr. King were to ask their advice regarding the opposition of segregation policies, Lao Tzu and Machiavelli would have significantly different responses. Lao Tzu would not necessarily encourage Dr. King to go to jail in protest of unjust segregation laws, but he would not oppose, because he has “three things to teach simplicity, patience, and compassion… Patient with both friends and enemies” (Tzu 67). He would ensure Dr. King
