We’ve seen from ages and eras, there have been leaders who have left a remarkable impact on global events and issues. Their ideologies, vision, boldness and dedication towards their work have not only shaped their surroundings but have influenced the entire world. Their principles and objectives are a testament to driving a significant change in culture, politics, societal development and growth. From ancient emperors building their vast empires to inspiring freedom fighters and others, this article will walk you through the top 10 leaders in world history.
These incredible individuals belonged to different countries, regions, and in fact, different times, but they all left a significant impression on history. Their impact was not just limited to their era but has its impact till date today. Whether through conquering an empire or winning military battles, standing against oppression or groundbreaking reforms.
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What Makes One the Best Leader?
It has been evident throughout history that great leaders persist in shared traits which result in a leadership quality. This inspired professionals during difficult times or when they fail during their tasks. Being the best leader in history does not mean only leading but being able to make the right decision in difficult times, having the ability to inspire others, staying determined, maintaining integrity, and never forgetting moral values.
Best World Leaders of All Time
There have been many leaders in human history. Some of them led countries. Some even led entire civilizations. Not all were successful. Many led their people to greatness, while others led them to destruction. Nonetheless, they all had one thing in common. They united people.
Let’s go back in history and put some light on these best world leaders of all time.
Julius Caesar
Julius Caesar was a key person in the history of Romans. He was the one who transformed the Roman Empire from the Roman Republic. His military had stretched Rome’s territory, and his crossing of the Rubicon River marked a turning point in Roman history. Julius Caesar’s reforms, like the Julian calendar, and his centralization of power set the stage for the Roman Empire.
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth President of the United States. He is known for the guidance and management he provided during the American Civil War and the steps taken by him to abolish the act of slavery. His motivation to keep the country united and his powerful speech for addressing Gettysburg, marked his legacy as an inspiration for liberty and equality. Lincoln’s vision of being a united, free nation continues to inspire.
Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great was the king of Macedonia. He is remembered for his phenomenal military skills. With the help of these skills, he had built his vast empire. Alexander was among the youngest to build one of the largest empires in the ancient world at the age of 30. This empire spreads from Greece to Egypt and into northwest India. His victory had expanded Greek culture far and wide. This period is known as the Hellenistic Age.
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela had taken charge against the racial discrimination that was happening in South Africa. His victory back then was a testament to a win of justice over oppression. Nelson was behind bars for 27 long years for his anti-segregation acts. This emerged as a symbol of forgiveness and resilience. Nelson Mandela was a true example of a best leader.
Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi led the Non-Violent Resilience Movement against the British Colony. This movement in India made Mahatma Gandhi a global symbol of peace and rights. He was named as the father of the nation. This movement of Gandhiji inspired many which then led to several freedom struggles and fights. He was one of the best leaders in Indian history.
Winston Churchill
Winston Churchill, the name arched in the history of the United Kingdom, is not just a name but a movement in himself. He was the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and has been an inspiration and motivating the nation with his speeches. His firm stand against Nazi Germany during World War II motivated the nation to stand together during its darkest hours. This movement marked their Allied victory.
George Washington
George Washington was the first president that the United States had elected. He was titled as the father of the country. George Washington had a very important role during the American Revolutionary War. He had drafted the initial constitution and had laid the foundations of the country. His actions spoke about his ideologies. He had stepped down from the position of a precedent for the sake of democratic leadership.
Queen Elizabeth I
Queen Elizabeth was marked as the last monarch of the Tudor dynasty in England. She is celebrated for her effective and stable reign. During her period, England saw immense growth and flourished not only economically but culturally, too. Elizabeth had a very clear vision of the expansion of the British Empire, and her defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 secured England’s position as a leading naval power.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
The name that sparked the fire of humanity within everyone is “Franklin D. Roosevelt”. Roosevelt led the nation during the period of depression and World War II. He aimed at restoring economic stability by providing necessary ailment materials to those dealing with depression. Roosevelt’s leadership was very essential for Allied victory during World War II. He had a clear vision for the post-war situation, which would then lead to the establishment of the United Nations.
Genghis Khan
The Mongol Empire has been very popular in history, known to be the largest empire that ever existed. Genghis Khan was the founder of this empire. He had conquered many territories in Europe and Asia and had built the largest connected empire in history. The primary agenda of the Mongol Empire was to promote cultural exchange and trade business along the Silk Route.
Wrap Up
These top 10 leaders in the world history have not just proven to be the best world leaders of all time but have displayed the power of dedication, bravery, vision, and courage. Their actions spoke more than their words. They not only inspired people of their era but are doing so even today.
All of these great personalities have biographies written about them. Want to know which biographies are a must-read? Find out here at the ‘Must-read biographies about famous people’.
Mahatma Gandhi, recognized for his efforts in the Non-Violence Movement against the Colonial rule of the British Empire, is hailed as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India.
Yes, Winston Churchill received a Nobel for Literature in 1953.
He was assassinated on April 15th, 1865.
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