People who a distinct flair and ability to lead have roamed the world. These were individuals who exhibited sheer charisma, nurturing crowds to the tune of millions. They helped write the legacy of their generation and shaped the future of the next generations. They influenced like no other had done before, driving both cause and ideology into the souls of men, women and children in equal measure. Meet the 8 greatest political leaders of all time.
1. Mahatma Gandhi
Born an ordinary village boy, Mahatma Gandhi would grow to become the ‘Father of the Nation’. During his time, India was subject to Britain’s tyrannical colonial rule. Gandhi practiced non-violence and silently fought for a just cause. He opened up his mind to truth and preached that only truth should prevail. Eventually, he secured freedom for India through non-violent protest such as civil disobedience and boycotting of foreign goods. Mahatma Gandhi’s ability to effectively inspire hundreds of millions of people, as well as his non-violence ideology has won him a spot among the greatest leaders to have ever lived.
2. Abraham Lincoln
It takes a visionary to lead a nation at times of crisis. Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States, taking the reins of power during the civil war. His effort helped unify the nation, otherwise, America would have broken up into numerous small countries. Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, ending slavery in the content. His humility, oratory prowess, and conviction makes him one of the greatest political leaders in history.
3. Nelson Mandela
You probably don’t need an introduction to this outstanding leader of yesteryears. Nelson Mandela was South Africa’s first democratically elected president. He led the Anti-Apartheid movement and relentlessly fought discrimination on the basis of race. This earned him a long-standing prison sentence, but not even that could deter him. Mandela led South Africa into an equal, free and prosperous future. The sheer will-power, focus, and determination from a man who spent 30 years of his life in jail is something to learn from.
4. Martin Luther King Jr.
For Martin Luther King Jr., it all started with a dream. A dream that would resonate across continents, write history and affect the lives of millions. Luther was a fervent activist against racial description and a leader in the Civil rights movement of the USA. Also a member of the clergy, Mr. King embraced non-violent tactics at protest and embodied a better future in which people of all races could be seen as equal. His perseverance, courage, and will-to-fight made him a leader in his own class. Martin Luther won the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize.
5. Mao Zedong
Mao, Zedong was a leader in the revolution that founded the People’s Republic of China. He fought back a Japanese invasion, ignited his nation’s economy and set the foundation that has led to the prosperous modern-day China. Mr. Zedong vision for his country, as well as his principles of economics and governance, have impacted the lives of billions of people across China.
6. George Washington
Known as the Founding father of The United States Of America, George Washington led the American Revolution and governed the country during its first few years post-independence. He had an intense vision of America and was also a visionary. His steadfastness, tenacity and decision-making prowess laid the foundation for the American superpower.
7. Julius Caesar
A Roman military commander, Julius Caesar was no less than a genius. He played killed the Roman Republic and in its place instituted a strong Roman Empire. Caesar was battle-field smart, and devised ingenious strategies for the expansion of the political empire. During his time, Romans conquered and occupied almost all of Western Europe. Julius Caesar’s ability to outwit opponents, make sound decisions and follow through with his goals made him a force to reckon with.
8. Winston Churchill
As Prime Minister of Britain during the Second World War, Winston Churchill demonstrated extraordinary character and true leadership. He was a gifted speaker and an emotional man who was effectively able to motivate Britons and others to stand their ground in the face of Nazi aggression. Winston Churchill’s perseverance, determination and patriotic devotion towards his country motivated his countrymen to win the war together with the Allies.
Do you think we left out any great leader who’s worth a mention? Let us know in the comments section below!
