100 Most Famous Historical Figures You Should Know About

100 Most Famous Historical Figures You Should Know About

The world has had, and still has amazing lives which have created famous and world-changing people. These exceptional people, ranging from different races, countries, and professions have left a lifelong impression. From politicians, scientists, rebels, religious leaders or philosophers, these famous people are the reasons we are in the world today. Every field had a man, a genius who suddenly revolutionized the industry to become better. Some scientists changed science forever, like, Albert Einstein and Marie Curie. The world has also been lucky to be home to fearless fighters for freedom and equality, like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, don’t forget the art industry which has been revolutionized by the genius of legends like Frida Kahlo and Leonardo da Vinci. Keep reading on to discover and understand the never-ending wisdom of Socrates and Confucius who put everything in black and white, or the true judgment of King Solomon. You may want to read on to see the fascinating military prowess of mighty people like Napoleon Bonaparte whose war skills led to freedom and transformed their countries. There are a lot more people in history, dead and alive, with extraordinary skills whose contributions continue to influence the world we live in today.

The following are some of the most famous historical figures for you:

1. Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem, Judea which was partly a Roman Empire territory. His parents were Mary and Joseph of Nazareth who had traveled to Bethlehem for a census. Jesus of Nazareth, are he is referred to, lived for a period of thirty-three years in which the world was changing years. His life between 4BC and 30AD constituted spiritual teachings that revolutionized religion. He taught the people about God and preached about love. His preaching and life were so strong that they led to Christianity as a new religion. The new religion became dominant in the western part of the world, spreading to Africa and other parts of the world. Today, Jesus Christ is feared and revered by Christians across the world because he is, indeed, the son of God.

2. Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon Bonaparte lived between 1769 and 1821. His five decades on planet Earth changed France and the whole of Europe. Later known as Emperor Napoleon I, Napoleon Bonaparte was born in France, becoming one of the most famous military leaders. He was born in Corsica where he grew up training as a military personnel. He grew fast in politics and the military after staging a coup where he successfully crowned himself a leader in France. Napoleon is remembered for fighting against any self-proclaimed superpower in Europe. He won most of the battles, making France a revered nation in Europe for many years. He revolutionized the French military by introducing modern technology in battle.

3. Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam was born in a small Arabian city known as Mecca. He lived for approximately six decades which were the most significant six decades for the Islam religion. Between 570 to 632 CE, Muhammad, a religious master, and political and military leader led to the birth of Islam. Muhammad was in a secluded place in the caves in the mountainous region of the Arabic nation when he received a series of prophecies from God. The Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over twenty-three years ago, starting with the initial revelation at Mount Hira. After the Prophet’s death, his successors compiled these divine revelations in a manuscript. His teachings attracted a few followers in his hometown. The followership grew wide in Islamic countries, spreading across the world. He is remembered as the true prophet.

4. William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon in England in 1564 and died in 1616. Despite living for just five decades, he changed the field of writing and art completely. He was a successful poet and play writer whose work would be appreciated and used centuries later. Shakespeare wrote more than thirty plays and over a hundred and fifty poems during his life as a writer. His writings placed him on the list of the greatest writer in the English language. Shakespeare had a family at a young age, marrying an older woman when he was just a teenager. They had three children together. He moved to London where he changed the acting industry. It was during this time that he wrote most of his poems and plays, including the infamous romantic play, Romeo and Juliet. He died at 52 years, which was above life expectancy in England at that time.

Also see: 15 Most Famous Authors of all Time

5. Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was born and raised in Kentucky in a humble family. Due to his family background, Abraham did not receive enough formal education. Despite not attending college or any tertiary institution, the young, ambitious, and intelligent Abraham Lincoln began self-education. He ventured into law and later on began a political journey. He became the 16^th president of America in 1861, four years before he met his untimely death in 1865. As a president, he changed the slave trade narrative in America. Although he did not abolish slavery, he put in place the Emancipation Proclamation. He was a strong-willed leader whose perfect communication skills and ability to make decisions in difficult moments propelled him during the American civil war. He was assassinated on one of his outings in Washington DC.

6. Henry VIII

Henry III was a man with many titles and names. He was also called Henry of Winchester, the king of England, the Duke of Aquitaine, and Lord of Ireland. He was born in 1207 and died in 1272 after changing England during his long reign as king. He became the king at the tender age of nine after his father, King John died. Henry III faced a lot of opposition including fighting the barons and trying to gain and maintain control of his kingdom. Although he faced strong opposition, he managed to strengthen the authority of the royal members. He also contributed to advancing infrastructure which was a period of transition in England. His son, Edward I took over a growing country.

7. Charles Darwin

In the nineteenth century, England was yet again a home for an influential natural scientist, Charles Darwin. He was born in Shrewsbury, Shropshire in 1809, living for more than seventy years as he died in 1882. Darwin was lucky to be born into a wealthy and influential family, which gave him time to concentrate on science. He was a difficult student who preferred outdoor practicals which led him to become a scientist. Darwin would develop the theory of evolution which was strongly criticized by Christians. Evolution theory suggested that people became who they are today through evolution from primitive beings to modern men. His trips to South America and around the world played a role in his trying to justify the theory. Science accepted the theory of evolution and natural selection.

8. Queen Elizabeth I

The queen of England, Queen Elizabeth I was born in 1533 and died in 1603 after making significant changes in England and Europe at large. She was a strong woman, queen, and statesman who reigned during the heavy religious, and political changes. Queen Elizabeth, I took over the crown from Mary I, a strong catholic who had brought Catholicism to England. Although Elizabeth I was a protestant, she allowed people to freely practice their religion in private. However, Catholics in Scotland led by Mary Queen of Scots staged a rebellion against Queen Elizabeth and her Protestants. Other rebellions would follow from Spain led by Philip II. Elizabeth I had a formidable military that defeated the enemies. She enforced laws that restricted Catholicism in England. She remained unmarried throughout her life, thus passing the crown to James I after her death.

9. Karl Marx

Karl Marx was born in Trier, German where he grew into a political philosopher and revolutionist. Karl Marx live between 1818 and 1883, during which he led to the birth of communism. Alongside Friederich Engels, they put forth the Communist Manifesto, an idea to replace capitalism in Germany. Marx was inspired to fully advocate for communism when he discovered the country’s rising poverty rate. He believed that poverty was due to capitalism because a few individuals owned the country’s property. He also thought the capitalists would eventually take over the country. He, therefore, fought for equality and fairness through communism. His theory left a legacy in Europe, China, and America as many labor movements were formed to protest against capitalism.

10. Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar was born in 100 BC and died in 44 BC having served as a Roman general who had conquered Europe. During his reign as a general, Julius Caesar changed Rome from a republic to an autocracy. He was a powerful leader and a dictator who expanded the Roman Empire’s territories by defeating the neighboring nations in Europe. His father died when he was sixteen years, leaving him vulnerable as his inheritance was stolen. He grew up in a hostile environment during the civil war, with little money. However, he rose to the ranks when he was elected consul to the Roman senate. Being given command over Roman armies, Caesar led the army to defeat several European nations expanding the Roman Empire. However, his proposal to redistribute the land to the poor was the beginning of his downfall. The senators made arrangements and assassinated him on the Ides of March marking the end of a great leader.

11. George Washington

George Washington was America’s first president, who had also been a military leader and statesman. He was the force behind American Revolution and was on the war front during the United States’ war against British colonial rule. Born in Virginia, Washington, in 1732, George Washington lived for almost eight decades transforming America from a British colony to a self-governed country. Possibly, being born into a wealthy farming family pushed him to set America free from the British. He became the symbol of the United States of America. His images are on American currency and all over the nation. He contributed to the formation of the country and has remained part of American history.

12. Adolf Hitler

When he was born in Austria in a humble family, nobody would imagine that the young boy would grow to shake the roots of the world. Adolf Hitler grew up in Austria, before moving to Munich where he was recruited into the army during the First World War. After surviving the war, he was promoted to corporal, and later on formed the Nazi Party. His failed attempt to overthrow the government was just the beginning of the life of a dictator. He became a chancellor in 1933 and proclaimed himself the German leader. He led the country into several aggressive wars where his troops majorly lost and were killed in large numbers. Hitler enforced totalitarian governance based on racism which caused the holocaust. He is also connected to the start of the Second World War which caused the deaths of more than sixty million people globally. Hitler’s name is used today to refer to the embodiment of evil in human form.

10 Facts about Adolf Hitler

13. Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was a South African political activist and president who is remembered for his strong stand against racial segregation. Born in Transkei, South Africa, Mandela completed his formal education at the University of Witwatersrand graduating with a law degree. He became an activist fighting against the apartheid rule in the country which led to his arrest. He was imprisoned after being put on trial for treason where he spent a whopping twenty-seven years. He was released in 1990 and immediately joined forces in eliminating apartheid. He successfully helped the country to transition into a democracy as he was elected the first president of the democracy of South Africa in 1994. He was the first black president and he advocated for equality, peace, and national building. He died in 2013 and has remained a symbol of national unity in South Africa and globally.

14. Mahatma Gandhi

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian lawyer and anti-colonial politician. He used nonviolent means to fight the British colonial rule in India and is referred to as the father of the nation. He was born in 1869 in Porbandar in India where he studied before moving to England for further studies. Mohandas was sent to South Africa to practice law upon completing the degree. It was in South Africa that he saw, and experienced racial discrimination, which pushed him to begin a revolution when he returned to India. While in India, he led several revolutionary groups including the Salt March, and always advocated for equal rights. He fought for the poor and vulnerable people in the country and wanted India to become self-governed. His fight led to India’s independence in 1947. He remains to represent peace in India and the world.

15. Aristotle

Aristotle lived between 383 BC and 322 BC during which he made significant changes in the world we live in today. Someone who was a student of Plato, and later on became a teacher of Alexander the Great must have been a lucky man. Aristotle was born in Stagira, Macedonia, a city in Greece. While he was a student at the Academy of Plato, Aristotle was a wild student who was intelligent and hungry for knowledge. He would ask several questions and question every piece of knowledge he received. He played a role in various fields including philosophy, physics, biology, ethics, and logic. His approach to knowledge such as empirical observations is still the world’s leading approach to science and philosophy.

16. Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great, a student of Aristotle is arguably the greatest military commander that ever lived. He lived between 356 BC and 423 BC. His three decades on the earth revolutionized Macedonia and the neighboring countries. You have probably heard people say that Alexander the Great conquered the world. Indeed he conquered the world. He is remembered for being a ruthless commander to his enemies but a caring leader to his troops. He won every battle that he engaged in with his army. Despite being a leader for just twelve years until his untimely death, he won battles and expanded the territories creating one of the largest empires in the world. His death at a young age stopes the battles and most of his empire was claimed by enemies.

17. Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, a politician, and the third president of the United States of America. As a polymath, Jefferson contributed to several fields including science, architecture, politics, and agriculture. He was a force behind abolishing slavery as he championed the stoppage of selling and buying slaves from Europe. However, Jefferson is popular for being the man who drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776 which was pivotal for America being set free from British colonial rule. As a president, Jefferson managed to keep America out of conflict as he united the people in the country, including political opponents. He retired from politics in 1809 and later died in 1826 at his beloved home in Monticello.

18. Martin Luther

Martin Luther was born in Eisleben, Saxony, which changed to become modern days Germany. He was born in 1483 and championed religious revolutions until his time of death in 1546. He was a theologian, and reformer in religious matters and an important person that led to protestant reformation. Previously a catholic monk, Martin Luther championed changes in the catholic churches to fight corruption and illegal business in the church. He famously wrote ninety-five these criticizing the acts in the church. After translating the bible in Germany, he made it easier for people to understand the word of god. Therefore, his thesis landed in safe hands, spreading fast across Europe. His teachings on religious matters emphasized religious purity, faith, and salvation which was the basis for protestant Christianity.

Find out: Top 15 Facts about Martin Luther

19. Joseph Stalin

Joseph Stalin, formerly Ioseb Besarionis dze Jughashvili was born in 1878 in Russia. He changed his name to Stalin, meaning ‘man of steel’ in Russian. He was a powerful leader in the Soviet Union until he died in 1953. Stalin is remembered for his ruthlessness and execution of his political opponents, and the people close to him for disloyalty suspicion. He captured, tortured, and killed close to a million people in two years to instill fear and eliminate disloyal members. After consolidating power himself, Stalin faced the first war test when Adolf Hitler’s Germany attacked the Soviet Union. Russian troops suffered losses but managed to repel the Germans in 1942. He is the reason behind the cold war because of his desperation for nuclear weapons after seeing what happened to Japan. The United States of America went to the cold war with the Soviet Union. However, the Soviet Union leader died in 1953 during the cold war after suffering a stroke.

20. Albert Einstein

Scientists have Albert Einstein to thank for his contribution to physics. He is remembered for his contribution to theoretical physics. Quantum theory was one of Einstein’s discoveries that changed science. Einstein was born in Germany, moved to Switzerland, and eventually to America after Adolf Hitler rose to power. While in America, the genius made discoveries that changed the world. Apart from Einstein’s equation, he also discovered the photoelectric effect which helped him win the noble Peace Prize in 1921. He helped us to know how time works, as well as space and energy. He remains an intelligent man in history.

21. Christopher Columbus

Christopher Columbus was born and raised in Italy before he became an explorer and navigator who discovered land abroad. He is remembered for setting on several sailing journeys in the late fifteenth century, with the help of the Catholic Church in Hispaniola. He sailed off to find Japan and China, but ended up in the Bahamas and later deep in the Americas. Columbus arrived in the Caribbean in 1492 having a way for more Europeans to set sail to the land abroad. Although he is celebrated in Spain and across the world for discovering unpopulated land, he is also remembered s being the cause of colonization which led to devastating effects on the indigenous people. His actions led to increased global exploration, marking the beginning of the global connection.

22. Plato

Plato, a student of Socrates and later on a teacher and mentor to Aristotle, was a man with several titles. Apart from being a philosopher, Plato was also an excellent mathematician whose teachings and writings greatly influenced the thinkers in Western philosophy. He founded the first higher learning institution in the Western world, the Academy in Athens. In his seven and a half decades on earth, Plato, a polymath, changed philosophy, mathematics, logic, and ethics in the Western world. As a teacher, he instilled the art of storytelling in his students, often allowing them to ask questions and think for themselves.

23. Louis XIV

Louis XIV was the French’s longest-serving king whose reign lasted for more than seventy-five years. Famously known as the ‘Sun King’, Louis XIV introduced a completely centralized system of governance, often amassing power to himself. He expanded the French territories through military campaigns and constant war with the neighboring nations. He encountered social and economic challenges during his reign due to his self-centered policies as the king. However, his reign established the monarchy and shaped French culture.

24. Ludwig Von Beethoven

Ludwig von Beethoven was a German musical genius who changed the music industry. He aided the transition of classical music to romantic music during his five decades on Earth. He was live between 1779 and 1827, having composed several songs and symphonies including the Ninth Symphony. He faced life challenges such as progressive deafness, leaving him completely deaf in his last years. However, being an expert and talented musician, Beethoven continued composing songs in his last fifteen years in isolation. ‘Fur Elise’ was one of the works he created in his last years and has remained iconic in the history of music.

25. Ulysses S. Grant

Ulysses S. Grant was one of the presidents of the United States of America, after being one of the most respected military leaders. He was born in 1822 in Ohio, rising to power after his appointment by Abraham Lincoln. Grant was an aggressive and tactical military leader whose skills helped the American military to victory over the Confederacy. He is also remembered for defeating General Robert E. Lee which was an important victory in ensuring that America remained united. Grant would later be elected the eighteenth president of the United States, serving from 1869 to 1877. He died eight years after finishing his term as president.

26. Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian artist, mathematician, painter, philosopher, and scientist whose contribution changed the Renaissance era in Europe. He was an excellent painter, often remembered for his masterpieces such as the ‘Mona Lisa’ and the ‘Last Supper’ paintings that have inspired art over centuries. He also explored several fields such as engineering often making discoveries that would help people in the future. He is a symbol of creativity in the world today.

Also see: Top 7 Interesting Facts About Leonardo Da Vinci

27. Augustus Caesar

Augustus was the first Roman emperor, who led the Roman Empire to several successes until he died in 14 AD. He was previously called Gaius Octavius or Octavian. His father died when he was four years, thus being adopted by Julius Caesar. Augustus became famous in Rome when Julius Caesar was assassinated. Augustus gained followership from his adopted father’s side, conquering the opponents such as Antony and Cleopatra. He quickly rose to power and implemented several reforms that helped in expanding the Roman Empire. The Pax Romana was the name used to refer to his reign which was accompanied by relative peace and success in the empire. His reign was the foundation for the Roman Empire’s long success in Europe.

28. Isaac Newton

Sir Isaac Newton was born in 1643 and lived up to 1726 after making a series of scientific discoveries. He was both a mathematician, physicist, and a scientist whose contribution in every field is used today. Some of his scientific achievements included his discoveries in mechanics and the law of gravity in the universe. He made developments in creating a telescope and the discovery of colors. His publication ‘Principia Mathematica’ was the backbone for the classical mechanics. His discoveries revolutionized the way we view the world, and understand natural things. His intelligence and brilliance have been a legacy to date.

29. Charlemagne

Charlemagne, born Carolus Magnus (Charles the Great) was both the king of the Franks and Italy on different occasions. He was born in Liege, Belgium where he grew up until his rise to power. His involvement in military operations at an early age paved the way for Charlemagne to become a powerful king and military commander in the future. His father, Pepin the Short and Frankish king died in 768 leaving Charlemagne and his younger brother, Carloman, to fight for the throne. They divided the kingdom in two but Carloman died a few years later leaving Charlemagne the only king. He is remembered as the father of Western Europe, and his reforms to enforce Christianity in the kingdom. He helped cultivate culture and identity in Western Europe until he died in 814. His kingdom crumbled, but his legacy is celebrated today.

30. Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt was the twenty-sixth president of the United States of America, statesman, and author. Often referred to as Teddy or T.R., Roosevelt was born in 1858, and lived until he died in 1919. He was a successful president who advocated for environmental conservation, and enforced labor rights in the country. he also played a role in expanding the powers of an American president as well as giving rights to every American citizen in the famous ‘square deal.’ he was a charismatic leader whose skills spearheaded the nation into infrastructure development including the Panama Canal. He is in American history as one of the greatest leaders.

Explore: Top 10 Facts about Theodore Roosevelt

31. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a possibly famous person from a young age as a child prodigy. He grew to become one of the most influential people in Australia and classical music in Western Europe. He was one of the best classical music composers in the country during the eighteenth century. Born in 1756, in Salzburg, Mozart began showing interest in music at an early age. His talent was natural because he was born into a musical family. He was a star in compositions such as symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. He was arguably the first person to apply musical harmony and melody control in singing. He composed ‘The Marriage of Figaro’, which is one of his legacies and historic compositions.

32. George W. Bush

George W. Bush is an American politician, statesman, and businessman who served as the 43^rd president of the United States of America. Before being elected president in 2001, George Bush served as a governor in Texas. He is also a successful businessman in America, whose presidency was almost shaken by a series of events including the famous 9/11 terrorist bombing in America. He made tax reforms in the country, alongside organizing several military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. He played an important role in shaping crucial policies that shaped the country.

33. Genghis Kahn

Genghis Khan, born Temujin was a Mongolian warrior and military commander who established the Mongolian empire. His empire stretched from Europe to Asia and he acquired land through aggressive military operations. His armies were known to leave a trail of fear, death, and destruction wherever they went. Khan was responsible for the formation of a huge empire that share one language. He also allowed people to practice their preferred religion and held a strong guard on the trade routes. His difficult childhood groomed him into the man that led the strongest army in the twelfth century. He died in 1227 at sixty-three years after establishing the biggest empire of the time.

34. Charles I

Charles, I lived between 1600 and 1649, after ruling over three nations as the king. He was the king of England, Scotland, and Ireland for over two decades before he was executed during the civil war. His reign as king was marked by constant conflict when he tried to make the kingdom have absolute power. He also faced economic, and religious problems and would often collide with the parliament. However, his reign sparked political differences leading to the civil war in Great Britain. After the war, Charles I was tried and found guilty of treason. He was executed, leading to the end of his reign.

35. Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill was an eloquent and convincing man in Britain. He was a British statesman who lived between 1874 and 1965, served as Prime Minister, and changed the world through his leadership. Apart from being a politician, Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill served as a soldier and writer. He was a key figure in the United Kingdom during the Second World War, rallying troops to fight through his powerful public addresses. He fostered the spirit of resilience among the soldiers and became an important person in the country. His leadership and contribution to defeating fascism are remembered as important contributions in Britain’s history.

36. Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison was an American businessman and scientist whose inventions are still used today. He was born in Milan, Ohio in 1847 where he studied before moving to Kentucky where he worked as a telegraph operator. He was a difficult child who irritated his teachers with his inability to grasp concepts like other students. He would ask a lot of questions whenever he was in class. Being unteachable, Edison resolved on being self-taught and read every book in the library. He was fascinated by Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica and thought of how to simplify Newton’s methods. Edison’s inventions include the electric light bulb, phonograph, and an electric car. His achievements as a scientist laid the foundation for modern science. He passed on in 1931.

37. Carl Linnaeus

Carl Linnaeus was born in Sweden in 1707 and lived until 1778 after impacting the field of biology in immeasurable ways. He is referred to as the father of modern taxonomy. He is the man behind the systems of classification of organisms. His expertise in botany, zoology, and physics made science what it is today. He is famous for his binomial nomenclature which is the basis for classifying and naming animals and plants. His inventions revolutionized the study of biology to date.

38. Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan was the man who rose from being an actor to becoming the 40^th president of the United States of America. He was born in 1911 and lived in the world wars until 2004. He served in the position of president between 1981 and 1989, making reforms that transformed America. He is remembered for his policies such as tax cuts, deregulation, and opposing communism. He was also a key figure in the attempt to end the cold war that brought better relations with the Soviet Union. His policies saw the American economy revamped and become well through the ‘Reagan Revolution.’ he is one of the key figures in American history.

Top 10 Remarkable Facts about Ronald Reagan

39. Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens was the nineteenth century’s writer, and social critic in England during the Victoria era. Born in 1812 in a modest family, dickens had a difficult childhood due to a lack of enough money. He, therefore, ventured into writing to change the situation. He used his speaking and writing skills to criticize the social injustices that were prevailing in England. He protested for the rights of minority groups, which inspired him to write books. Some of his novels include ‘Great Expectations,’ ‘Oliver Twist,’ among others. His writings captured the history of the Victoria era, which is an important part of England’s history.

40. Paul the Apostle

Saul of Tarsus, who would later change his name to Apostle Paul was both a Jew and a Roman citizen who lived between 5 AD and 67 AD. He was known for being a strong opponent of the Christian faith in his early life. He participated in the persecution of Christians until his conversion to become a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. He would, later on, spread the preaching of Jesus in the Roman Empire before writing journals that formed the basis of the new testament of the bible. His contribution to the world included the teachings on grace, faith, and salvation forming the foundation for the Christian faith to date.

41. Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath who was vast in science, philosophy, and business. He was also a statesman, ambassador, and free thinker whose works set off the American Renaissance. He was involved in drafting the American Constitution and fostered the American Revolution during the seventeenth century. He also contributed to science by inventing a lightning rod and bifocals. He also wrote several essays and books to share his wisdom on social matters in the country with the spirit of enlightenment. Franklin’s contribution to America is seen in several fields and he remains an icon.

Check out: Top 15 Facts about Benjamin Franklin

42. Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson served as the twenty-eighth president of the United States of America between 1913 and 1921. He was a statesman whose progressive policies and passion for international peace changed America and the world. He implemented the Federal Reserve System in America and was a key figure in the First World War as he ensured the formation of the League of Nations before the war began. His vision for a peaceful and just world inspired democracy in the world today.

43. Johann Sebastian Bach

Johann Sebastian Bach, popularly known as J.S. Bach was a German musician, composer, organist, and writer whose work inspired modern classical music. Born in Eisenach, young Bach showed his talent at a tender age inspired by his father. His parents passed away when he was ten years. His older brother, Johann Christoph took the responsibility to raise Bach. He was introduced to a local church where he learned to play violin alongside other musical organs. He had unique vocals which he used to his advantage, composing some of the best classical music. Some of his compositions include ‘Violin Concertos’ among several others that were famous in Western Europe. His musical innovations continue to inspire generations.

44. Galileo Galilei

Galileo Galilei was an Italian astronomic scientist and mathematician whose discoveries helped people understand the universe and the sun. He was born in 1564 in Pisa, Florence in Italy. Before meeting his death in 1642, Galileo had made a significant discovery about the revolution of the universe. He enhanced and used a telescope to study the universe, coming up with the conclusion that the earth revolved around the sun. His theory was opposed by the Catholic Church and he faced persecution. He remains an iconic figure in the history and science of the universe.

45. Oliver Cromwel

Oliver Cromwell was born in Cambridge shire, England in 1599 where he was raised and schooled. He attended Cambridge University before launching his political journey. He is remembered by some people as the defender of the English democracy. He championed the formation of the Commonwealth of England and overthrew King Charles, and oversaw his execution. Cromwell also served as the Lord Protectorate of England, during which he led to the execution of Scots and Jews. His rule was marked with religious tolerance until he died in 1658. However, any disagreed with his policies, and his body was dug up and hanged. He is remembered as a man who forged the way to forming modern England.

46. James Madison

James Madison was another one of the presidents of the United States between 1809 and 1917. He was an American statesman, a politician, and a theorist whose role in the country as president led to the creation of the best constitution of his time. He was also a strong promoter of the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, earning the name ‘Father of the Constitution.’ before he died in 1836, Madison had cemented his name in American history. He advocated for a strong central government and balanced bills of rights. He is remembered for his intellectual leadership.

47. James I

James, I was the king of England and Ireland between 1603 to his death in 1625. After succeeding Elizabeth I, James was the first monarch to rule over both England and Scotland. His time as king faced religious conflicts between Protestants and Catholics in England. He was responsible for the translation of the bible from the original language to English. This translation led to the creation of the King James Version of the bible. His regime faced opposition because he focused on creating an absolute government. He was the pioneer of the Stuart dynasty and was also the cause of long religious conflicts in the country.

48. Friedrich Nietzsche

Friedrich Nietzsche was a German philosopher and statesman whose life shaped the traditional theories of morality. He was also a poet and writer who published works such as ‘Beyond Good and Evil’ which put his name on the global map. He was a freethinker who emphasized willpower and often urged people to reason on their own. His writings continue to inspire literature today.

49. Franklin D. Roosevelt

Franklin D. Roosevelt was the 32^nd president of the United States of America who had one of the hardest regimes in the country’s history. His reign between 1933 and 1945 was the toughest because of the great depression and the Second World War. As president, Roosevelt implemented policies called the New Deal which aimed at recovering the economy of the country. He is given credit for expanding the role of the federal government. He died in 1945 after a successful regime in the country.

50. Sigmund Freud

Sigmund Freud, born in 1856 and died in 1939,was an Australian polymath whose knowledge of many different subjects changed the world. He graduated from the University of Vienna where he joined at seventeen years and studied philosophy and zoology. He explored some topics that had never been looked into, such as the meaning of dreams, sexuality, and human behavior. Despite facing challenges, his discoveries have helped to treat people with mental disability. He is an inspiration to free thinkers today.

51. Alexander Hamilton

Alexander Hamilton was born in West Indies and immigrated to the United States of America where he was pivotal in the country. Born in 1755, though some reports say he was born in 1757, he served as the secretary of the treasury in George Washington’s administration. As the first secretary of the treasury, he made several internal reforms with the president that led to enormous industrial growth in America. His contribution to the Constitution and support of the national government earned him a spot among significant people in American history.

52. Gautama Buddha

Gautama Buddha, whose other name was Siddhartha Gautama lived between 563 and 483 BC. He was an Indian strong spiritual leader, teacher, and founder of Buddhism. Despite being lucky to be born into a wealthy family in India, Buddha denounced his family to search for truth and self-awareness. He went on a mission to enlightenment through meditation and reading. After several years of meditation, he gained enlightenment under a Bodhi tree. He went on to pass knowledge to missions of other people in the country and beyond. His teachings focused on helping people find inner peace and reduce human suffering. People use his teachings today to find inner peace and live fulfilling lives.

53. Mark Twain

Mark Twain was an American author who used his sense of humor, wit, and satire to pass the message to the people. He was a strong advocate for equal human rights in America which inspired him to write books. Some of his writings include ‘The Adventure of Tom Sawyer’ which vividly described life in Mississippi, becoming one of the most referred to books in the country. His writings targeted social injustices such as racism, and social segregation of minority groups in the country. His skills to pass important information with humor make him one of the greatest writers in history.

54. Edgar Allen

Edgar Allen Poe was an American actor and author in the nineteenth century. He was born in 1809 and died in 1849 after a successful career in the film industry. He was well known for his storytelling skills and often told horrific stories. Some of his writings include ‘The Raven” and ‘The Tale-Tell Heart’ which are both horror stories. His work explored unimaginable themes such as insanity, and mortality leading to the discovery of horror movies. Poe was known for having the ability to tell stories that arouse people’s emotions. He is the founder of the horror movies genre which continues to play in cinema halls today. Despite his struggles with life, he managed to cement his name in the film industry as a legend.

55. Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith Jr. was born in Vermont in 1805 where he grew becoming a strong spiritual leader and teacher. He founded the Latter Day Saint movement which was highly supported by Mormons. According to joseph smith, God, and Jesus Christ visited him and instructed him to restore the gospel and establish a church that would help preach the word of God. He established the Church of Christ which would change the name to the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints. He became the president of the church of Mormons, facing rejection and persecution. His teachings shaped the lives of millions of people making him a key figure in history.

56. Adam Smit

Adam Smith was a Scottish philosopher and economist whose contribution led to the birth of modern economics. during his life in the eighteenth century, smith wrote several books, journals, and articles, including ‘The Wealth of Nations’ which dug into concepts such as free markets, and labor division. He was much ahead of his time because his works are used in modern economics. He developed the theory of capitalism which was widely used in the early years in Europe and America. He led to the Scottish Enlightenment and his emphasis on economic prosperity through specialization is applied in many economies today.

57. King David

King David was a key figure in the ancient history of Israel as he reigned as the king for more than four decades. According to the recording in the Christian bible, David rose from being a shepherd to becoming the second king of Israel. Born in 1040 BC, David grew up to become a powerful man after his famous fight and defeating a Philistine giant Goliath. He was a skillful military commander who led his army to a series of victories during his reign. David was also a composer and writer who contributed to the writing of the book of Psalms in the bible. However, David’s life as king of Israel was also full of personal conflicts and controversies, including taking one of his soldier’s wife and having the soldier killed in the battle. He is remembered today as a warrior, and king.

58. George III

George III was a British leader who ruled over Great Britain and Ireland for six decades during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Between 1760 and his death in 1820, George III was the ruler whose reign met a series of important occurrences. He experienced the American Revolution war and the napoleon wars as a ruler. Despite the political and social obstacles, he managed to preserve unity in the country despite the external forces and opposition. He encountered several health issues as a leader, including insanity and mental issues. His health became a concern towards the end of his reign. His achievements include defining the functions of the monarchy which lasted for generations that followed.

59. Immanuel Kant

Immanuel Kant was born and raised in Germany where he had an immense impact in the field of philosophy. His eight decades on earth changed the way people think and behave. He is remembered for developing a system called Kantianism which harmonized reason and morality. The polymath also contributed to metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology before he died. He emphasized ethical principles that would be accepted universally. His wisdom challenged the existing philosophers and shaped the subsequent thinkers. He is one of the most influential Western philosophers of all time.

60. James Cook

James Cook was another maritime explorer whose journey across the Pacific Ocean paved the way for overseas exploration in the eighteenth century. Born in England in 1728, Cook was the first man to complete three successful voyages exploring New Zealand, Australia, and beyond Europe. It was his journeys that helped many more Europeans to understand the Pacific Ocean and began moving across the water body. He captured everything he came across, including culture and plantation wherever he went. His accurate recording keeping helped Europeans to understand the world outside Europe and set off to expand the territories and launch colonization. His exploration had a lasting effect on science and geographic exploration today.

61. John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy, famously known as J.F. Kennedy was one of the presidents of the United States of America, serving from 1961 until 1963 when he was assassinated. As the 35^th president of America, Kennedy came in after the country had seen several successful men as presidents. Being energetic, he brought a youthful energy to the government with a series of reforms that sparked numerous ideas. However, he faced many challenges as president, including the famous Cuban missile and civil rights movements in the country. His contribution to space exploration was behind the first moon landing in 1969. He was assassinated in 1963 marking an end to his short presidency which had an impact on the country and the world. He is a legend.

Check out: Top 10 Astonishing Facts about John F. Kennedy

62. Augustine of Hippo

Augustine of Hippo was born in North Africa in 354, where he became a renowned philosopher until 430 when he died. As a young man, Augustine was hungry for knowledge and academic enlightenment. His curiosity drove him into becoming a theologian and later became a bishop after converting to Christianity in 386. As a writer, Augustine of Hippo influenced Christian philosophy through his writings such as ‘The City of God’ and ‘Confession,’ which spoke about human sin, and forgiveness. His views on original human sin cemented his name in the Western region as one of the best theologians.

63. Vincent Van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh was an artist and painter born in 1853 in the Netherlands. He was a man who lived with difficulties throughout his life which he used to his advantage. He struggled with mental illness in his life, but would still make the best paintings. He created pieces of art such as ‘Starry Night’ and ‘Sunflower’ which are among the best pieces of art today. He was known for his ability to create art that was full of emotions as he used heavy colors. His work inspired painters who want to make captivating paintings.

64. Nicolaus Copernicus

Nicolaus Copernicus was born in Poland in 1473 where he lived for seven decades changing the way people understand the universe. He was an astronomer and a mathematician whose work revolutionized the world. He is the man behind the discovery of the solar system and the distance of other planets. His discoveries sparked opposition from religious groups. He contributed to future scientific advancements and the modern world’s view of the universe.

65. Vladimir Leni

Vladimir Lenin was the man behind the formation of the Soviet Union. He was born in a city in Russia in 1870, where he grew up becoming a revolutionist and a famous politician. In 1919, Lenin was behind the Bolshevik Party that overthrew the government. The new government introduced communist rule in Russia changing the history of the country. Before he died in 1924, Lenin served as the first head of the Soviet Union state, making reforms and implementing socialistic policies that made Russia grow drastically. His leadership skills changed the way Russia was governed. Many leaders followed his ideas across Europe during the nineteenth century.

66. Robert E. Lee

Robert E. Lee was an American politician, military officer, and statesman whose contribution led to peace in America. He was born in Virginia to a wealthy family where he had the privilege to get formal education. He served in the United States Army before quitting to join the Confederate Army. He was the commander in the North Virginia army that recorded several victories in the country. When the confederacy was defeated at the end of the war, Lee changed his stand and advocated for peace. Despite several conspiracies during his time as a leader, his legacy still lives.

67. Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde was an Irish writer whose work made him rise to fame in the late nineteenth century. He was born in 1854 and lived for just over four decades writing poems, plays, and articles. He produced ‘The Importance of Being Ernst’ and ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ which put him on the list as the best writer of his time. His work focused on criticism that sparked controversy. His career came to an end when he was found guilty of indecency because he was gay. His writings are still admired today because of their humor and satire.

68. Cicero

Cicero is one of the most eloquent men in the history of the Roman Empire. He was born in 106 BC, in Rome where he grew to become a philosopher, politician, and orator. He was a politician in Roman politics where he played an important role in defending the value of the country. He is remembered for his public speeches and philosophy where he applied his rhetoric skills. Before he died in 43 BC, Cicero ensured that justice prevailed in Rome, and he emphasized civil duty. However, despite his success as a politician, he was exiled and executed for his controversies. His philosophy and statesmanship left a long-lasting legacy.

69. Charles II

Charles II served as the king of England, Ireland, and Scotland for two and half decades during the seventeenth century. He was born in 1630 and rose to power during a difficult time in the history of England. The former ruler, Oliver Cromwell left the country in turmoil. Charles II led the countries in what is referred to as the restoration period accompanied by reviving the monarch. His reign was associated with religious tolerance and he led England into rebuilding London after the great fire in 1666.

70. Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Jean-Jacques Rousseau was a Swiss polymath whose knowledge in various subjects such as music, and philosophy contributed to the Enlightenment era. Rousseau produced works that challenged the traditional ways of life leading to civilization. His work focused on personal freedom and social harmony in society. He left a legacy that helps in the development of social and political friends today.

71. John Adams

John Adams was yet another key figure in American history who played a role as a founding father. He was born in 1735 and participated in the civil war during the early years of the country. As the second president of the United States of America, Adams was on the team that drafted the Declaration of Independence and advocated for America to be free from colonial rule. He was also a writer and intelligent leader whose skills helped in the development of the country. His efforts shaped the early development of America.

72. Richard Wagner

Richard Wagner was born in 1813 in Germany where he lived until he died in 1883. Wagner contributed to opera in the nineteenth century. As a composer, Wagner created ‘Tristan und Isolde’ among other works that put him on the global map. His personal life was not smooth. He was mentioned in several controversies leading to some people loving him while a lot more others disliking his work. However, his revolution and contribution to opera left a never-ending legacy.

73. Pyotr Ilyich

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky was born in 1840 in a wealthy family in Russia. He grew up to become one of the most celebrated musicians whose music change the industry forever. People loved him for his emotional music which was made better with his lovely melodies. He was one lucky man because his parents would afford to take him to school where he enhanced his musical talent. He attended the St Petersburg Conservatory where he composed songs and played musical instruments. He ventured into symphonies, ballets, and operas during his career composing songs such as ‘swan lake.’ his music comprised Russian romanticism and a Western touch making him a globally recognized figure.

74. Voltaire

Voltaire was a French writer and philosopher who used his skills during the Enlightenment period in the country. Voltaire used wit and satire to pass the message to the audience, often focusing on the social injustices that were dominant in Europe in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. He also wrote about religion, and freedom of speech in France during the hostile years. Some of his works include ‘candle’ and ‘letters concerning the English nation’ which were key in changing the authority’s perception on social matters. His works influenced the French Revolution and played a role in the Enlightenment period.

75. Saint Peter

Saint Peter was born as Simon Peter who grew up during Jesus Christ’s time. Peter was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ and is considered one of the key figures during the early years of Christianity. Peter was born in Bethsaida where he grew to become a fisherman. He was fishing in the river when he met Jesus and became a follower. After Jesus’ death, Peter took over the role of leadership to lead the rest of the disciples in spreading the gospel of Christ. His teachings and life shaped the faith of the early Christian church. He also contributed to creating writings that are used by Christians today. He was crucified upside down for spreading Christianity.

76. Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson was born in 1767 and lived to serve as the seventh president of the United States of America. Jackson rose to prominence when he was serving in the military. As a military commander, Jackson won the battle of New Orleans in 1812 making him famous and promoted. As American president, Jackson made drastic changes with his populist and expansionist policies. He enforced the Indian removal act which led to the relocation of Native Americans. He was remembered for his strong leadership skills and strong stand with decisions he made both good and bad. He retired from politics in 1837, eight years before he died.

77. Constantine the Great

Constantine the Great was the first Roman emperor to embrace and legalize Christianity in the Roman Empire. He lived between 272 AD and 337 AD, playing an important role in spreading Christianity in the country. Constantine did not only tolerate Christianity but made it the national religion. He played a role in shaping Christian doctrine in the Council of Nicaea. Constantine was a key figure in Roman Christianity and politics.

78. Socrates

Socrates was a Greek philosopher who lived between 469 and 399 BC during which he changed the field of philosophy in Europe and the world. Socrates is considered the father of Western philosophy. He is remembered for his wisdom that challenged the people’s existing wisdom and challenged them to apply critical thinking. He encouraged people to always question the conventional wisdom which would always lead to further discoveries. He sought knowledge and self-examination which he believed is key in human life and everyone should take that path to find themselves. His teaching was passed to some of the known people such as Plato who became one of the best philosophers. His wisdom continues to inspire modern philosophy.

79. Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley was a dynamic and charismatic American singer, composer, and actor whose skills shaped the field of art. He became the best musician and a popular figure in the pop culture. Presley was known for his charism and energy during his musical performances. Although he lived for four decades, Presley cemented his name in the music industry as the king of rock music. His unique style and ability to mix rock music and blues made him untouchable. His dynamic style in the industry made him relevant for many years in the industry until he died in 1977. Some of his hits include ‘heartbreak hotel’ and ‘Hound Dog’ which popularized his style. He revolutionized the music industry and is celebrated today as the king of rock and roll.

80. William the Conqueror

William the Conqueror was born in Normandy, France, and grew up to become the king of England. He is remembered for conquering England in 1066. He was born in 1028 and lived until 1087 after serving as king and making enormous changes in the country. Some of the changes in England include the compilation of the Domesday Book. His reign in England was pivotal in shaping the culture of the country consisting of the Normans and Anglo-Saxon cultures. His legacy is part of England’s history today.

Discover Top 11 Interesting Facts about William the Conqueror Here

81. Michelangelo

Michelangelo Buonarroti, commonly referred to as Michelangelo was an Italian artist, painter, and sculptor whose pieces of art live to date. He is one of the greatest artists who lived during the Renaissance period in Europe. Born in Caprese, Michelangelo’s identified his talent at a young age which motivated him to focus on art and study under the best teachers. Some of his pieces of art include the drawing of King David and the Pieta. His understanding of human anatomy contributed to his intense drawings and paintings that evoked emotions. Apart from art, he was also an excellent architect who took part in designing the St Peters Basilica in Rome. He changes art.

82. Philip II

Philip II of Macedon was an influential figure in ancient Macedonia who served as king. He was also the father of Alexander the Great, a renowned philosopher and military commander. Phillip II is credited for expanding the empire during his reign n as king at a time when nations protected their territories with all they had. He changed the military during his time by introducing the Macedonian phalanx which made the military more powerful than before. One of his agenda was to unite Greece thus launching several military attacks on several cities in Greece. At the age of forty-six years, King Phillip II was assassinated leading to the end of his reign. Even though he did not achieve all his goals, he brought remarkable changes in Macedon and expanded the territories. Military leaders today apply their military skills in battle.

Top 15 Facts About Philip II Of Spain

83. Johan Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a man with many titles in Germany in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. He was a poet, writer, philosopher, and statesman whose contribution changed literature and philosophy. Wolfgang used his skills to explore human emotions by creating writings that would evoke emotions. He wrote ‘The Faust’ which was a piece that explored human emotion and the entire complexity of human conditions. During his time, he explored different writing genres and styles which inspired literature and philosophy today.

84. Ali

Ali ibn Abi Talib, famously known as Ali was the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad whose life changed Islamic history. He lived between 601 and 661 BC during which Islam religion was in the early stages of development. He is remembered for his bravery and support for social justice which were forces behind his push for human rights in the Islam community. Ali served as the fourth caliph of the Rashidun caliphate during which he encountered life and leadership challenges. His teachings shaped the life of Islam as he held strong beliefs in religious matters. His life as a leader taught people how to live righteous lives and be kind to others.

85. Thomas Aquinas

Thomas Aquinas was born in 1225 and died in 1274 after making contributions to philosophy and religion in the Western world and globally. He was born in the Dominican where he spent the rest of his life writing and teaching. He is known for his teachings that sought to reconcile between faith and reason. He used philosophical questions in his writings such as the ‘summa theological’. He taught about understanding the existence of God and following up with human morality. His pieces of writing have continued to inspire religion and theology.

86. Richard Nixon

Richard Nixon was the 37^th president of the United States of America serving between 1969 to 1974 before retiring from politics. He was an American statesman whose presidency was marked by a series of controversies. As the president of America, Nixon signed the arms control treaties and was the man behind America entering into diplomatic relations with other global superpowers such as China and Russia. His presidency was cut short when he was hit by the Watergate scandal leading to his resignation in 1874. Nixon died twenty years later.

87. Louis XVI

Louis XVI served as the last king of France from 1774 at twenty years until 1789. His reign as king was marked with hardship including economic and political instability. The hardship was a result of the revolution that was around the corner. As a young king, Louis XVI tried to enforce reforms but was met with unbearable resistance that resulted in the French Revolution in 1789. The once-famous king ended his reign in shame as he was deposed and executed in 1793leading to the end of the Bourbon monarchy and the rise of the French Republic.

88. Charles V

Charles V was one of the Roman Empire rulers in the sixteenth century who served as Holy Roman Emperor for nineteen years until 1556. He took over an empire with a massive territory stretching to Europe, America, and Africa. His reign as a ruler was marked with a series of challenges including the war with the Ottoman Empire. The Protestant Reformation was also a challenge to him because he failed to harmonize religious groups. His exit from power was followed by the fragmentation of the empire marking the end of an era.

89. Dante Alighieri

Dante Alighieri was born in Florence, Italy where he grew up becoming one of the most renowned philosophers in history. He was also a writer and a poet whose work such as the ‘divine comedy’ explored religious themes. Dante focused on spirituality and often produced pieces that depicted humor. His vast knowledge of writing and philosophy helped him have an impact on Italian literature and philosophy. His writing style influenced Western literature and left a long-lasting legacy.

90. Otto von Bismarck

Otto von Bismarck was a German statesman and diplomat who played a key role in unifying the country. He was born in 1815 and became the chancellor of the Germany Empire in 1872 where he served for almost two decades. As a chancellor, Bismarck implemented several reforms including military and political reforms that led to a united Germany. He is remembered for his Realpolitik policy that focused on a peaceful existence in Europe. His legacy brought peace to the country and its neighbors.

91. Grover Cleveland

Grover Cleveland was the only American president who served two nonconsecutive terms. Cleveland was the twenty-second and his regime as president successfully revived the country’s economy as he focused on fiscal policies and economic reformation and less government intervention. He addressed economic issues such as tariff reduction and the silver coinage controversy. His strong leadership skills and proper decision-making skills earned him a place in American history as one of the greatest presidents.

92. John Calvin

John Calvin was a staunch Christian and theologian in France in the sixteenth century who played a pivotal role in developing Protestantism. As a writer, Calvin published some of his works including ‘Institutes of the Christian church’ which focused solely on spreading Christianity in France and Europe. His teachings as a spiritual leader focused on the sovereignty of god and Christian morality. During his life between 1509 and 1564, Calvin developed Calvinism which spread across Europe. His teachings shaped the Christian faith in Europe and are still emulated today.

93. John Locke

John Locke was born in England where he grew to become one of the most celebrated philosophers and political theorists. He was born in 1632 and lived for more than seven decades. Locke used his talent and skills to tackle social issues such as human rights and urged the government to protect individual rights. Some of his writing works include ‘an essay concerning government undertakings’ which addressed issues that people were facing in the country. His ideas and works inspired the Enlightenment age in England and laid the foundation for the modern world.

94. Pope John Paul II

Pope John Paul II, was born in Italy and given the name Karol Józef Wojtyła in 1920. He grew up in the Catholic Church where he excelled in behavior and academics earning him the title of pope. He was the first pope of the Italian Catholic Church after over four and a half centuries. He also became the longest-serving pope in the Catholic Church’s history. Pope John Paul made the world a better place by advocating for peace and social justice in many countries across the world. During his reign as pope from 1978 until he died in 2005, pope john Paul visited more than a hundred and twenty countries in the world where he addressed different issues. He advocated for religious tolerance in these nations and the promotion of family values. His strong moral leadership shaped the moral world today.

95. Rene Descartes

René Descartes was a French polymath who lived in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. He was born in 1596 in France where he accomplished many things as a philosopher, mathematician, and scientist. Descartes was renowned for his famous statement ‘I think, therefore I am’ which was derived from his teachings that focused on rationality. He also made an immense contribution to mathematics by developing coordinates that have inspired the field of geometry. His contribution to different subjects remains inspirational today, including philosophy where he taught how to have body-mind coordination.

96. Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla was both an American and Serbian citizen and a scientist whose inventions in electrical engineering changed the world. He discovered the alternating current (AC) power systems which was the beginning of numerous changes in modern electricity. Tesla lived between 1856 and 1943 making discoveries such as the wireless transmission of electricity. His ability to make discoveries ahead of his time put him on the global map as one of the most significant scientists in history.

97. Harry S. Truman

Harry S. Truman served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 to 1953. Truman became president during the end of the Second World War and was forced to make some major decisions that changed the order of the world war. He ordered the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with nuclear bombs leading to the end of the war after Japan surrendered. His reforms in the government included the introduction of the Marshall Plan and discussions on the matters of the war. His involvement in international matters led to America being revered as the world’s superpower because of its advanced nuclear weapons. Truman also made domestic policies such as laws that promoted civil rights and economic prosperity. He faced several challenges as the president but always seemed to be ready with the right decision. He died in 1972.

98. Confucius

Confucius was a Chinese political figure, teacher, and philosopher whose teachings changed the world of ethics and morality. He was born in 551 BC and lived until 479 BC after accomplishing remarkable success in changing the way of life in Asia and the world. He developed Confucianism which focused on teaching virtues and social harmony. He taught people to cultivate their moral standards which would help them have proper social relationships. He also emphasized the importance of education and the importance of pursuing knowledge in the ever-evolving world. He is remembered today for setting educational standards by emphasizing the importance of learning.

99. James Watt

James Watt was born in 1736 in Scotland where he became a scientist, inventor, and engineer. Watt was the man behind the invention of the steam engine and further improved on the invention to make a perfect discovery. His invention was key in the starting of the industrial revolution in Europe leading to a modern world. He was pivotal in the development of industries and machinery that assisted in the production industries. His engineering skills and discoveries led to the generation of steam power that is used to date.

100. Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday was a famous English scientist whose contribution to the field changed electromagnetism and electrochemistry. Faraday was born into a poor family which could not afford to take him to school. Therefore his curiosity and hunger for knowledge pushed him to become self-taught. His curiosity pushed him to discover electromagnetic induction which led to the development of electric generators in modern science. His discoveries revolutionized people’s understanding of electricity today. His long-lasting impact on science still inspires scientists today.

The world today is a better place thanks to the contributions made by our forefathers and genius inventors. As we come to the end of the list of the 100 most influential people in history, it is important to remember their immense contributions in different fields. They used their skills and talents to make discoveries that changed the world and the course of human history forever. Although most of these people are dead, their works still live on because we are using their ideas to make lives better. We must always recognize these people and be motivated by their work as we look to improve on their inventions.