The Greatest Gentleman: Traits Of A True Hero

Throughout history, certain individuals have stood out for their deeds and the lasting impact they have had on humanity. The idea of greatness is subjective and can mean different things to different people. For some, it may refer to scientific discoveries that change our understanding of the world, while for others, it may be about standing up for what is right or leading a country.

Michael H. Hart's book, The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, attempts to rank the most influential figures based on how their actions changed the course of history. Here is a look at some of the individuals who have been considered among the greatest or best men in the world:

- Gautama Buddha, the spiritual teacher and philosopher from ancient India, who founded Buddhism.

- Muhammad ibn Abdullah, the founder of Islam and a religious, political, and social figure in the Arab world.

- Isaac Newton, the influential scientist who made groundbreaking contributions to physics, mathematics, and astronomy.

- Jesus Christ, central to the Christian faith, believed by Christians to be the Son of God and the savior of humanity.

- Albert Einstein, the renowned physicist who revolutionized our understanding of the universe with his theories of relativity.

- Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in India's struggle for independence, advocating for nonviolent resistance and challenging social norms.

- Martin Luther King Jr., a leader in the American civil rights movement, who advanced civil rights through nonviolent civil disobedience.

- Nelson Mandela, a symbol of resistance against apartheid in South Africa, who became the country's first Black president after spending 27 years in prison for his activism.

- Confucius, the Chinese philosopher and teacher who laid the foundation for much of Chinese philosophy and ethics.

- Aristotle, a philosopher, polymath, and natural scientist whose contributions have spanned various fields, including science, politics, philosophy, economics, and psychology.

- William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in the English language, whose works continue to be studied and celebrated globally.

Religious and Political Leaders

In the realm of religion and politics, several individuals have distinguished themselves as influential leaders, leaving indelible marks on communities worldwide. Here are some notable examples:

Billy Graham is a towering figure in faith, known for his powerful oratory and charismatic presence. His evangelistic crusades, broadcast through television and radio, reached an estimated 2.2 billion people. Graham played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers, advocating for integrated seating during a time of rampant segregation in the United States. His commitment to equality and justice was rooted in his belief that every person is beloved by God.

T.D. Jakes is a pivotal faith leader whose dynamic preaching style and deep theological insights have earned him widespread reverence. His ministry extends beyond the pulpit as an accomplished author, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. Jakes's message centres on the potential for personal growth and overcoming adversity, with a focus on reconciliation, love, and the importance of family. His non-denominational megachurch, The Potter's House, welcomes thousands of members from diverse backgrounds.

Narendra Modi, the three-time Prime Minister of India, has consistently ranked as one of the most renowned global leaders. Under his leadership, India has become one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Modi's popularity reflects Indian citizens' growing awareness of the importance of strong leadership in navigating domestic and international challenges.

Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, has led the church since 2013. He succeeded Pope Benedict XVI, who served from 2005 to 2013, and Pope John Paul II, who led the church from 1978 to 2005. Pope Francis is known for his humility and emphasis on serving the poor and marginalised. He has been a prominent voice for social justice and interreligious dialogue.

Joel Osteen is a well-known pastor and author associated with Lakewood Church, one of the largest megachurches in the United States. His message of hope, positivity, and God's unconditional love has resonated with millions. Osteen's approach to Christianity emphasises positive thinking and a life of gratitude and service. His influence extends beyond the church through his televised services, nationwide tours, and charitable causes.

Dalai Lama, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has been the leader of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism since 1940. He is known for his teachings on compassion, non-violence, and spiritual harmony. The Dalai Lama is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and an advocate for Tibetan independence and human rights. He is respected worldwide for his peaceful resistance and efforts to preserve Tibetan culture and Buddhism.

These individuals, through their dynamic leadership and dedication to their respective fields, have inspired and guided people across the globe, leaving a lasting impact on religious and political spheres.

Scientists and Inventors

The best scientists and inventors are those whose work has had a profound impact on the world and has stood the test of time. Here are some individuals who have made groundbreaking contributions to science and technology, shaping the modern world and inspiring future generations:

Isaac Newton is renowned for his groundbreaking laws of motion and universal gravitation, as well as his development of calculus and significant contributions to optics. His work laid the foundation for classical mechanics and continues to be influential in physics and astronomy.

Stephen Hawking is known for his exploration of black holes and cosmology. His work on the properties of black holes, such as Hawking radiation, has revolutionized our understanding of the universe and the nature of space and time.

Albert Einstein developed the theory of relativity and the equation E=mc^2, which transformed our understanding of energy and mass. His theories of special and general relativity changed the field of physics and our understanding of the fundamental nature of the cosmos.

James Clerk Maxwell formulated the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation, known for Maxwell's equations. His work unified the understanding of electricity and magnetism and laid the foundation for modern electrical engineering.

Charles Darwin proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection, which fundamentally changed biological sciences. His work provided a scientific explanation for the diversity of life and has had a profound impact on fields such as biology, ecology, and anthropology.

Marie Curie conducted pioneering research on radioactivity. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win in two fields. Her discoveries in the field of radioactivity have had a significant impact on physics and medicine.

Thomas Edison is one of the most prolific inventors in history. He is known for his work with light bulbs, electricity, film, and audio devices. His inventions include the phonograph, the electric light bulb, and improvements in film technology. Edison's work revolutionized the fields of lighting and entertainment.

Nikola Tesla was a brilliant inventor and engineer who is often considered one of the most important contributors to modern electrical engineering. He invented alternating current (AC) electrical supply systems, the Tesla induction motor, and the Tesla coil. Additionally, he made significant contributions to wireless communication and radar technology.

Alexander Graham Bell is credited with inventing the telephone at the age of 29. He also invented the "photophone," a device that enabled sound to be transmitted on a beam of light. Bell's work revolutionized communication and had a profound impact on society.

Johannes Gutenberg was a German goldsmith and inventor who created the Gutenberg press, an innovative printing machine that used movable type. His invention revolutionized the spread of knowledge and information, making books and written materials more accessible to the general public.

These individuals represent some of the greatest minds in the fields of science and invention. Their contributions have shaped our understanding of the world and have had a lasting impact on humanity's progress.

Artists and Writers

The Beatles

The Beatles are one of the most influential bands of all time, with their music and lyrics paving the way for future artists. Their early songs, such as "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "She Loves You", were simple and catchy, but as they progressed, their music became more complex and experimental. They explored a range of genres, from psychedelic rock to pop to hard rock, and their lyrics tackled a variety of themes, including love, social commentary, and personal struggles. Their innovative use of recording techniques and their willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles inspired and influenced countless artists that followed.

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, also known as the "King of Rock and Roll", is considered one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. His music and performance style, which combined elements of rock, country, and gospel, revolutionized the music industry. With his charismatic stage presence, good looks, and dynamic voice, he captivated audiences and defined the rock and roll genre. His songs, such as "Hound Dog" and "Jailhouse Rock", became anthems for a generation and continue to be celebrated and covered by artists today.

Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan is a legendary singer-songwriter and Nobel Prize winner whose music and lyrics have had a profound impact on popular culture. With his unique blend of folk, rock, and blues, Dylan created songs that spoke to the social and political issues of his time, such as "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'". His lyrics were often poetic and filled with imagery, and he fearlessly tackled topics like civil rights, war, and social injustice. Dylan's influence extends beyond music, as his lyrics and activism inspired and empowered generations of activists and artists.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, the "King of Pop", was a groundbreaking entertainer whose music and choreography transformed the pop landscape. With his innovative music videos, dynamic stage performances, and genre-bending sound, Jackson pushed the boundaries of what was possible in popular music. His songs, such as "Thriller" and "Beat It", became global phenomena, and his humanitarian efforts, including his support for various charities and his own Heal the World Foundation, further solidified his impact on the world.

Madonna

Madonna is a pop icon and one of the best-selling music artists of all time. With her bold image, provocative lyrics, and boundary-pushing performances, Madonna challenged societal norms and empowered women to express their sexuality and individuality. Her music, which blended elements of pop, dance, and electronic, appealed to a global audience, and her constant reinvention and evolution as an artist kept her at the forefront of the industry. Madonna's influence extends beyond music, as she has also left her mark on fashion, film, and business, inspiring future generations of artists and entrepreneurs.

Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder, a musical prodigy and multi-instrumentalist, has had a profound impact on popular music. With his soulful vocals, masterful songwriting, and innovative use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments, Wonder created a body of work that defied genre boundaries and inspired countless artists. His songs, such as "Superstition" and "Living for the City", tackled social and political issues while also celebrating love and joy. Wonder's influence extends beyond music, as he has also been a prominent activist for civil rights and social justice, using his platform to raise awareness and promote change.

Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin, known as the "Queen of Soul", is one of the most influential and celebrated musicians of all time. With her powerful voice and dynamic performances, Franklin brought a new level of emotion and passion to soul and R&B music. Her songs, such as "Respect" and "Think", became anthems for the civil rights movement and empowered women and people of color. Franklin's influence extends beyond music, as she was also a prominent activist for civil rights and women's empowerment, using her platform to raise awareness and inspire change.

John Lennon and Paul McCartney

John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the songwriting duo behind the Beatles, are two of the most influential musicians and songwriters of the 20th century. Lennon's lyrics and melodies, often poetic and filled with social commentary, captured the spirit of the 1960s and spoke to a generation seeking change. McCartney's melodies and harmonies, often catchy and memorable, helped create some of the Beatles' most beloved songs. Together, Lennon and McCartney created a body of work that defined an era and continues to inspire and influence artists today.

Chuck Berry

Chuck Berry, often referred to as the "Father of Rock and Roll", is one of the pioneers and architects of rock and roll music. With his energetic performances, charismatic stage presence, and innovative guitar playing, Berry helped define the sound and style of rock and roll. His songs, such as "Johnny B. Goode" and "Maybellene", became anthems for a generation and inspired a multitude of artists that followed. Berry's influence extends beyond music, as his lyrics and performances challenged racial stereotypes and helped pave the way for civil rights and social change.

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, a legendary guitarist and performer, revolutionized the world of rock music with his innovative playing style and dynamic stage presence. With his explosive guitar solos, experimental soundscapes, and dynamic performances, Hendrix pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the electric guitar. His songs, such as "Purple Haze" and "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)", became classics and inspired a generation of guitarists and musicians. Hendrix's influence extends beyond music, as his bold image and unapologetic expression of his African-American identity challenged societal norms and empowered people of color.

Fighters and Activists

Fighters:

Jon Jones

Considered by many to be the greatest MMA fighter of all time, Jon Jones is a force to be reckoned with in the UFC. With a long unbeaten streak, multiple championship titles, and an impressive list of defeated opponents, Jones has dominated the sport for years and shows no signs of slowing down.

Tom Aspinall

As the current interim UFC heavyweight champion, Tom Aspinall is a rising star in the world of MMA. His skill and power have made him a favourite among bookmakers, and he is even predicted to beat Jon Jones in a potential future match-up.

Mike Tyson

Nicknamed "Iron Mike", Mike Tyson is a legendary boxer known for his explosive fighting style and unmatched animosity in the ring. During his prime, Tyson was considered one of the most dangerous men in the world and is still regarded as one of the best boxers of all time.

Activists:

Mohandas Gandhi

A prominent leader of the Indian independence movement, Gandhi advocated for non-violent resistance and social reform. His peaceful protests against British rule inspired a generation of activists and ultimately led to India's independence in 1947. Sadly, Gandhi's dream of a united India was not realized, as the country was partitioned into Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan, resulting in widespread violence.

Martin Luther King Jr.

Inspired by Gandhi's principles of non-violent resistance, Martin Luther King Jr. led the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, fighting against racial discrimination and segregation. His famous "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered during the March on Washington in 1963, is considered one of the greatest pieces of oratory of all time. King's activism played a pivotal role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed segregation in public spaces.

Emmeline Pankhurst

A fearless campaigner for women's suffrage in Britain, Emmeline Pankhurst co-founded the suffragette movement, which employed uncompromising and militant tactics to fight for women's right to vote. Despite facing imprisonment and harsh treatment, Pankhurst persevered, and her efforts contributed to the partial victory of women's suffrage in 1918 and full voting rights for women in 1928.

Greta Thunberg

At just 16 years old, Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg has inspired young people worldwide to take action against climate change. Her solo protests outside the Swedish parliament in 2018 gained international attention, and she has since addressed world leaders at the United Nations climate change summit and led thousands in global climate strikes.

These individuals, and many others like them, embody the spirit of activism and fighting for what is right. Their courage, dedication, and impact on society serve as a reminder that one person can make a significant difference in the world.

Teachers and Philosophers

Teaching and philosophy have been intertwined for thousands of years, with some of the greatest teachers also being philosophers and vice versa.

Socrates

The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is often regarded as the founder of Western philosophy and the creator of the Socratic Method, a question-and-answer teaching style that remains in use today. Socrates taught through dialogue and critical inquiry, focusing on ideas, text, and facts rather than opinions. He is known through the writings of his students, Plato and Xenophon, as he himself left no texts. Socrates was sentenced to death for "corrupting" the youth of Athens and failing to acknowledge the city's official gods. However, his ideas and methods have had a profound influence on the development of Western philosophical thought and continue to shape modern theories and practices.

Plato

Plato was a student of Socrates and is another famous ancient Greek philosopher. He founded the Academy and was an innovator of the written dialogue and dialectic forms in philosophy.

Confucius

Confucius, a philosopher from China, promoted the idea of making education accessible to all and helped establish teaching as a career. Confucianism, a way of life centred around the cultivation of morality, is based on his teachings. Confucius established teaching as a respected profession and his ideas on personal ethics and morality continue to influence modern thought.

John Locke

John Locke, an Oxford academic and researcher, is best known for his work on the Enlightenment and his contributions to liberalism. Locke strongly believed in the rights of all persons to life, liberty, and property, and that the primary duty of a government is to its people. His ideas on individual rights and government responsibility have influenced modern democracy and the formation of constitutions, including the U.S. Constitution.

Immanuel Kant

Immanuel Kant, a modern philosopher, is known for his work on transcendental idealism, which posits that humans experience only appearances, not objects in themselves. He also wrote extensively on ethics, aesthetics, metaphysics, and epistemology. Kant's ideas on morality and duty have had a profound influence on modern ethical and philosophical thought.

Other Notable Teachers and Philosophers

There are numerous other teachers and philosophers who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. For example, Aristotle, a student of Plato, is often referred to as the first scientist in history and is known for his work in logic and rhetoric. Lao Tzu developed Taoism, a theory focused on the balance between humans and animals in the universe. More contemporary figures include Friedrich Nietzsche, whose philosophy of nihilism has influenced existentialist and surrealist movements, and Karl Marx, whose writings on class struggle and capitalism have inspired worldwide social and economic movements.

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