Many might be under the impression that as a leader passes away, his/her leadership tactics go with them. In most all cases this is very wrong. Given the deceased leader was very effective, their leadership activities and skills continue to live on, if not grow even stronger. Communication may be halted with this leader, but their innovative leadership style still influences our living and learning.
It should also be noted that in some cases, the death of a leader is directly linked to his/her leadership style. Not only is this proof of social problems that plague our country, but more importantly, the great impact this leader’s style and traits had on us as a people and our country.
As a leader leaves this world, whether by natural causes or harm inflicted by others, he/she becomes an icon. They become a symbol of hope for what that leader was fighting for. In a time of sadness, this person is remembered and their leadership influence grows in strength.
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
- John F. Kennedy
- Abraham Lincoln
- Harvey Milk
- John Lennon
- Helen Keller
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
The names above can be considered prime examples of posthumous leaders. The list could go on and on. In light of recent events I would like to mention one in particular. With the conflict in Iran getting stronger and stronger every day there are more and more deaths to report. One girl in particular, named Neda Agha-Soltan, was shot and killed at a protest. Little did anybody know, this girl would go on to become the symbol for opposition in Tehran. Neda’s influence on what’s going on in Iran will not soon be forgotten.
“I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter.” – Winston Churchill
Guest post by Adam, Not Your Ordinary Intern
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