The world changes daily . . . turning on its axis people are born and people die, and life goes on. Occasionally a person who accomplishes greatness is born. Whether it’s nature or nurture, this person has a different flair and the ability to reach out and influence others through their sheer presence and charisma. Whether this talent is used for good is often debated but they possess the qualities to become great leaders.
Who are the world’s greatest leaders? Here in iThinkers HQ this is one of our favourite debates. We have settled on the below for our top four but don’t try and pin us down on an order!
Nelson Mandella
The first democratically elected President of South Africa. He was the leader and the face of the Anti- Apartheid movement. Throughout his life, he relentlessly fought against racial discrimination. For his actions, he served a long prison sentence. Undeterred he came out as a hero and led the country into a free, equal future. His determination, focus and will-power were tremendous that even after serving almost 30 years in jail, he remained focused on working for what was right.
Martin Luther King
It all started with a dream; a dream for change and a dream for better tomorrow. Martin Luther King Jr. was an activist and a leader in the civil rights movement of USA. He was also a member of the clergy. He is known for the non-violent ways in which he advanced and led the civil rights movement. He fought for racial equality and showed the people a picture of a better future where all men are equal. Courage, perseverance and the will to fight for what’s right till the very end made him a great leader. He won The Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
Winston Churchill
The most crucial and the most important time for a leader to show their true worth is in the face of adversity and Winston Churchill managed to shine at the task. He was the British Prime Minister and leader during the WW II. He was an able leader, an emotional man but his greatest victory was in his motivation for others to defend themselves against the Nazis. His determination, perseverance and the patriotic devotion towards the nation motivated the British to go forward and win the war with the help of the Allies. ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’, he said, winning the war and hearts.
Mahatma Gandhi
Born an ordinary boy Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, he later became known as the Father of the Nation or ‘bapu’. Mahatma Gandhi led India against the tyrannical rule of the British. He fought silently and practiced ahinsa (non-violence). Believing that truth would prevail and without harming a single soul, he brought freedom to India. Eventually, The British left India and Gandhi became the face of the nation. He is, without doubt, one of the greatest leaders to have ever walked the earth.
So what do you think?
Would these be your top four or have we missed someone? We’d love to know your view. Email or tweet us today.