Although it took some time before any form of investments were made in the first cities, many people already worked in groups. In a way, the notion that no man is an island has already been subconsciously ingrained in people’s minds before the poet John Donne even penned it. With that said, in every group, no matter how big or small, there is always a leader. As the title suggests, they are the ones who lead people to a common goal or aspiration. Over the years, the world has witnessed the rise of many influential figures, some of which we’ll be talking about today. Although they may have pursued their goals through different means, they all have one thing in common: their actions and principles moved and inspired millions. Now, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of these people, shall we?
Mahatma Gandhi
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”
– Mahatma Gandhi
An Indian lawyer, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is undoubtedly one of the most recognized figures in the world today. Besides his main line of work serving the law, Gandhi was also an advocate for civil rights and public welfare, among other things. Through his nationwide campaigns and nonviolent means, Gandhi eventually developed a massive following throughout India. Along with the people addressing him as Bapu, an endearment for “papa,” Gandhi also earned the honorific “Mahatma,” meaning “venerable” and “great-souled.” To this day, October 2, the day Gandhi was born, is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti in India and is known worldwide as the International Day of Nonviolence.
Abraham Lincoln
“As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy.”
-Abraham Lincoln
Although his family lived through quite a predicament, with his father doing just about any job to help with their personal loans, it goes without saying that Abraham Lincoln’s earlier years were far from easy. Even so, that wasn’t enough to stop him from aspiring for something greater. With that said, his journey undoubtedly reached its peak when he finally became America’s 16th president. Among the achievements he’s made throughout his tenure, Lincoln is most known for his work in putting an end to slavery. Despite it already being generations, Lincoln’s ideals remain just as important in modern society as it was during his time.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.”
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
Thanks to his father, Martin Luther King Jr. learned at a young age that he should always stand strong, especially when faced with adversity. Despite the harsh living conditions he and his family endured for many years, King eventually found a bright glint of hope during his teenage years. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology, King followed in his father’s footsteps and became an advocate for equal rights, labor rights, and other civil rights. With Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolent ways being one of his inspirations, King led thousands of people on marches and campaigns, with his most iconic “I Have a Dream” speech taking place at the Lincoln Memorial. For all his efforts, King eventually won a Nobel Peace Prize and posthumously received the Presidential of Freedom.
Nelson Mandela
“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
-Nelson Mandela
To lead is not to put oneself above everyone but to march with them side by side. As seen with these previous leaders, the aspiration for equality has been a goal we’ve been striving towards for some time. Over the years, this idea has become quite an influence on society, reaching thousands of people at an exponential rate. With that said, one such person moved by this concept is none other than Nelson Mandela. A revolutionary figure who takes credit for being South Africa’s first president, Mandela firmly believed that everyone was of equal worth and that no one should be looked down upon. Besides receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, Mandela also won what’s undoubtedly the greatest reward of all: he is highly regarded and respected by millions of people all over the world.
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