Leaders in History Articles

Every so often, a leader emerges whose legacy seems larger-than-life. Some of them inspire us and invite us to envision a better future, like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Others had tumultuous lives and careers that read like a cautionary tale, such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Henry VIII. Still others were tyrants, politicians on the wrong side of history, and various other leaders whose examples we’d do well not to follow, like Russia’s Ivan the Terrible and Andrew Johnson, the first US president to be impeached.

If you want to know more about the people who stood out from their contemporaries, for better or worse, you’ve come to the right place. Our research on historical leaders examines not just who they were and what they did, but the lasting impact they’ve had on the world.

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25 Books to Read for Black History Month

From great triumphs to continuing struggles, learn more about African American history with these books.

Sir Walter Raleigh and the Search for El Dorado 

His fascinating life included two stints in the Tower of London.

Explore the Tumult of Russia Through This Putin Biography

It sheds light on Russian history, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and more.

The FBI Surveillance of Martin Luther King Jr. 

The civil rights leader was the target of a covert FBI project to discredit him.

5 Historical Mystics Who Embraced Occultism

These leaders looked outside science and established religion for answers.

The Mysterious Execution of Mussolini

As his dictatorship came crumbling down, he was captured while trying to flee the country.

10 Enlightening Books About Little-Known and Hidden History

From an odd use of mummies to the man who survived two atomic bombings.

8 Powerful Queens in History Who Were Worthy of the Crown

Everyone should know the stories of these legendary women.

Founding Father Button Gwinnett and His Deadly Rivalry

This little-known figure had a short but fascinating life.

Teddy Roosevelt's Legendary Rough Riders

This cavalry regiment was celebrated for its role in the Spanish-American War.

Explore the Fascinating Life of Britain's Newest Leader, King Charles

He spent years with an up-close look at what it's like to rule Britain—and now the responsibility rests on his shoulders.

The 10 Best Books By and About Winston Churchill

The prime minister was also a prolific writer and historian.

8 Absorbing Biographies of World Leaders

Explore the lives of people who had a large impact on their nation and the world.