I'm just wondering who you would describe as the "most inspirational person in history" and why?

I've been trying to narrow it down and haven't had any luck. I have personal heroes (Lincoln) and favorites (Joan of Arc), but I'm not sure I could label them the most inspirational in history.

What do you think?

This is in no way a homework help or a school paper (Have my Masters, done with school... for now! ) I'm simply a historian who loves history!

ineedhelpfast

i would have to say johannes gutenberg, inventor of the moveable press

mimi03

I must say that Oprah is an inspiration in my historical view...she may not be the majority's image of perfection or labeled a saint however...

She personifies the idea that anyone of any race, gender or economic background can rise above all odds and become successful. She has changed her life and the lives of others for the better!

She's a leader and her philanthropy knows no boundaries

George_1950

Oprah? You said, Oprah? Well, Bill Cosby, Bill Gates, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

razor96

i am sorry but i did not realize that there was a better man, leader, guide or teacher for that matter than JESUS CHRIST

firmbeliever

Personally for me I find the all the Messengers and Prophets (peace be upon them) an inspiration.
From the among them especially Jesus (alaihi salaam) and Muhammad (pbuh).
Mohamed the prophet

Synnen

Well---history has sooooo many aspects.

Social, political, geographical, technological, religious---who can say that Adolf Hitler or Mother Theresa had any more impact on the world than a man who shared his last meal with another who was hungry, or with a slave who picked up a dropped military message and gave it back to the messenger, rather than give it to the enemy?

I think EVERY person has equal impact on our world, and on history. It's just that the media doesn't get everyone's name

If I had to choose a FAMOUS historical figure, I'm going to have to rob from Orson Scott Card and say Columbus. Had he chosen to go on Crusade instead of lobby to go to the new world, the entire history of our world would be drastically different.

I have to add, though, that the art critic that p1ssed Hitler off so badly that it caused him to hate so voraciously would be JUST as important, don't you think?

Allheart

Not sure if this has been mentioned.....All Holocaust Survivors. Bless their beautiful souls.

And I think my feet ache. Sheesh.

p.s. and of course those who did not survive. Still hereos and still Inspirational...and Still amazing.!!!!!!!

Synnen

Okay....I just want to point out (before I get flamed)--

I completely misread the question.

The question asks for "inspirational". I somehow read that as "Influential".

I'm so dumb.

I'll delete my answer if you want, HC>

HistorianChick

Oh no, no need to delete Synn. Influential and inspirational are kindred terms... I think they may actually be equal and opposite at the same time... one can be influential without being inspirational, but one can hardly be inspirational without being influential.

I actually enjoyed reading your post.

Allheart

We open our hearts without fear in order to love
We open our souls without fear in order to trust
We open our minds without fear in order to learn
We open our hands without fear in order to provide a gentle touch

May we continue to do all of this - without fear, even when hurt finds a place to call home.

Edit - Sorry forgot to indicate just some thoughts from Allheart.