There is a lot to be learned from the most successful men and women throughout history. Those individuals who built thriving careers and business legacies or who revolutionized the way people think about creating a meaningful life were not simply inspirational to their contemporaries. Indeed, through the lens of history they often become even more motivational as it is possible to learn more about their origins and the challenges they faced to reach their success.
Presidential Power
Historically, presidents of the United States are some of the most inspiring individuals of their time. George Washington, Ronald Reagan, and Franklin D. Roosevelt all helped to make the nation what it is today and inspired generations of people from around the world.
One of the lessons to be derived from the life and service of George Washington is to seek service rather than power. While he eventually became the nation’s first president, it was not his underlying goal. In fact, he resisted the nomination of both his first and second term and it was his insistence that he not serve another term which eventually led to the two-term limit of presidential service.
Many people do not realize that the president who led the country through World War II had a paralytic illness that left him confined to a wheelchair. Because of the prejudice surrounding physical disability, he rarely allowed himself to be photographed in the wheelchair. But in a time when those with disabilities were often overlooked or thought of as having less value than those without a disability, it is remarkable and inspiring for him to have risen to the most powerful position in the world. It is a reminder that no matter what limitations you face, it is possible to do anything you are willing to work hard enough for.
It can seem like ancient history sometimes, but the influence of past American presidents is easily felt to the present day. The reverence and demand for documents featuring presidential autographs signed at the bottom reveal a continued respect and admiration for many former inhabitants of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue despite how much their approval ratings fluctuate while in office. Furthermore, these documents reveal the engines of progress at work within the administrations of the past on matters relating to immigration, foreign policy, economic reforms, healthcare, and many other issues still making headlines today.
Groundbreaking Scientists
Albert Einstein is perhaps the most well-known scientist the world has ever produced. His story has led to numerous books, movies, and television shows and he continues to inspire people to embrace their unique intelligence and think outside the box.
Marie Curie is another familiar name when one considers the history of science. She was the first woman to be recognized with a Nobel Prize and is perhaps most well known for the invention of the mobile X-ray machine which was used to determine the severity of injuries of soldiers on the battlefield. She is also something of a cautionary tale. Her work in radioactive materials is often credited with the development of atomic bombs and was what ultimately led to her early death. The lesson of caution and not putting discovery before safety and understanding is a less pleasurable one to remember but nonetheless important.
Technology Pioneers
It is almost unfathomable for the modern person to imagine a time before the telephone. More specifically, a time before a smartphone was their ever-present companion. The power of the telephone simply can’t be overstated. But only a decade ago smartphones were uncommon and it wasn’t until the early 1900s that telephones were more than a novelty.
The popularization of the old fashioned landline is credited to Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Watson. However, the creation was ultimately the result of innovation, research, and experimentation by a larger group of people. Bell is an inspiration to many not because he popularized the telephone but because of what he did with his subsequent wealth. He went on to help fund other scientist’s work and helped the journal Science and the National Geographic Society.
Steve Jobs is often credited with taking the telephone to the next level. While there were cell phones prior to the 2007 release of the iPhone, they were essential mobile versions of the original iteration of the telephone. Jobs took the basic idea of a communication device and created something far more valuable that went on to dramatically shape modern culture. One of his most famous quotes is, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” If you want to be a leader in your industry don’t be afraid to take risks.
History is filled with inspiration if only one is willing to look. By taking the time to examine the past it is possible for modern workers to learn more about what it takes to achieve greatness while maintaining humility in their own capabilities.
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