The Book That I Have Selected To Examine For This Essay

What is leadership, and how do we attain the best and most effective leaders? These are questions that are as old as civilization itself. Bass (1974) wrote that, “from its infancy, the study of history has been the study of leaders” (as cited in Wren, 1995, p. 50). Since the study of history in the West is commonly held to begin with Herodotus of ancient Athens, it is not surprising that we should examine the historical views of leadership through the eyes of two titans of Greek thought: Plato and Aristotle.

An example of an individual that had outstanding leadership skills is President Andrew Jackson, who, irrespective of previous letdowns, with persistent innovation and passion did all he could to clinch the presidential seat and make America a better place. He being categorized among our forefathers, the first Presidents of the United States, makes him an individual that was not motivated by money or the like, but one that was driven by a deep feeling to serve Americans for the sake of establishment of their country (Barbuto & Wheeler, 2007). Andrew Jackson was a true servant leader because he operated within the premise upon which servant leadership is founded upon i.e. “There's no greater purpose than service to others.” He stands out from the current world presidents of today because he was never driven by power, money, and prestige but through service to other people. This paper is going to give invaluable insights concerning Andrew Jackson's leadership style through the lens of the servant leader.

By analyzing the leadership styles and character traits of Horatio Gates, a suitable general in the Continental Army, and George Washington, a virtuous man, an understanding of the necessary victory for America is perceived as the leaders are contrasted.

Throughout recent history, the definition of leadership has been the subject of a vast number books, articles, and essays. Countless authors have attempted define the ability to lead in a tangible way. They have scrutinized on how one becomes a leader and how one successfully leads. Because the ability to lead is so ambiguous and no one can follow a definable set of steps to become a leader, many authors have use examples of leaders to illustrate their views on the subject. And even in the limited scope of time that is the history of the United States, dozens of men and women have lead Americans through their words, beliefs, and actions. Whether they are appointed leaders such as President George Washington or Thomas Jefferson, or leaders of worthwhile cause such as Susan B. Anthony or Martin Luther King Jr., these leaders provide a blueprint that if examined carefully, can provide useful advice for those aspiring to become great leaders. And for Donald T. Phillips, the American leader whose life “still inspires and moves people from all walks of life” and provides an example of leadership that is without equal is Abraham Lincoln (Phillips). In his book Lincoln on Leadership: Executive Strategies for Tough Times Phillips provides 15 overarching leadership qualities that Lincoln followed all throughout his life. By describing how Lincoln exhibited each of these qualities thoroughly, Phillips then relates how potential leaders today can duplicate those same qualities in their

FDR's leadership, as well as the other leaders discussed in our text, are individuals whom are a learning tool for the future. As demonstrated throughout history, leaders and society continually learn from our progress, development, and our continue to evolve effectively. History has taught us that it is wise to learn from our past. In this specific case, learning and teaching ourselves of the traits and leadership that FDR possessed is an important lesson in understanding how leadership evolved to where it stands today. FDR also teaches us about the effectiveness of visionary charismatic leadership, and the impressive obstacles that can be conquered using this specific set of character strengths.

George Washington had great leadership skills that shined during his presidency. In paragraph 4 of father of the nation it shows how he had acquired his amazing leadership skills from serving in the French and Indian War. He was held responsible of being commander in chief of the american army and president of the U.S. Very few presidents now-a-days have the military credentials that Washington

What Makes George Washington a Good Leader? In this century people commonly ask “what makes a good leader,” in this case George Washington is a perfect example of a good leader. Throughout the movie “The Crossing” he showed several different characteristics of being a good leader. Such as being confident, being a leader takes pride and confidence shows that.

One of the greatest leaders of all times was George Washington, who provided historic contribution to the United States of America. He was a confident man, who has inspired many of people, and became an excellent military leader. Washington had an exceptional communication skills, which allowed him to listen others opinion, ideas, and treat his soldiers with great respect. A man of his word and

I want to suggest and argue that Washington was chosen for these leadership roles because of his character and also because of his being a genius in the area of leadership. They trusted him because he had demonstrated a noble and incorruptible character and he had also shown himself to be an exceptional

Leaders are a vital instrument in the orchestra of how the world turns today, but often times the responsibilities of leaders are misconstrued. However, there are several texts out there that explain fully what a leader’s role is. Two of these texts are The Odyssey by Homer and “Farewell Address” by George Washington. The authors of these documents were very wise and respected in their times, one being an eternally famous philosopher and the other the very first President of the United States. The Odyssey by Homer and “Farewell Address” by George Washington display clearly the loyalty, unity, and humility a leader should have.

This one sentence revealed what the book really would be about and what position the authors had on Washington. They favored him and saw him as a strong leader, setting an example for future leaders. He was a sharp politician who predicted what the young country would face and knew how to handle it and what type government to set up. He sensed Congress not only needed to be strong, but also needed to have enough representatives for the nation. Being the first president, he held all the power in molding the presidential title. How he made the office what it is today would be his greatest accomplishment for a strong foundation of the presidents who wanted to have powerful management. His establishment of the office and dedication to the merit of the government itself that, more than any decisions he actually made in office, made his presidency the most formative in American

Leadership many times can be misinterpreted by many individuals. Leadership is an ability that not everyone is meant to have nor develop. In fact, many can be called, “leaders” but that does not imply that their leadership role plays a positive impact on others. At times, some people seek leadership in a form to only obtain power and abuse it for their own self-interest. While there are others that create great influences to following generations. For instance, there are those like Plato and Thomas Jefferson who have established philosophical thoughts that for past centuries, have revolutionized many people’s ideals. Through their principles many people have identified, what they consider can exemplify, true characteristics that make someone have successful leadership qualities. In their own way, they have influenced others, with the purpose to communicate a foundation of important ideals which have helped guide many. Whether it is one or a group of individuals. Many people should consider in practicing and adapting to those philosophical principles, manifested in Plato’s, “The Allegory of the Cave” and Thomas Jefferson's, “The Declaration of Independence” essay who illustrate certain ideals and aspects of leadership in their own unique way.

The book I read is titled George Washington on Leadership, it was pushed in 2008 by Richard Brookhiser. The book is a fine read, relating, recounting and focusing mainly on Washington’s leadership qualities and development of. Brookhiser brings to light events and people that helped shape and influence Washington’s leadership traits from his youth through his death. “Why choose this book?” you might ask. Well, to be forthright, I could not think of any other individual more fitting (from a military perspective) to emulate in leadership qualities as Washington. The book identifies many leadership traits that Washington possessed as experience taught him, such as creative and critical thinking, team

James MacGregor Burns said it best, “Leadership is leaders inducing followers to act for certain goals that represent the values and the motivations-the wants and needs, the aspirations and expectations-of both leaders and followers. And the genius of leadership lies in the manner in which leaders see and act on their own and their fellow 's values and motivations”. As one reads this statement, one naturally reflects on personal leader experiences or ones learned through academic or professional studies. Abraham Lincoln, especially during his presidency, exemplified Burns definition of a leader.

Leaders also try to achieve the same quality for their own status, which allows them to pursue greater strength, achieve personal goals and future endeavours. According to a recent study conducted by Psychometrics Canada a pioneer in research assessment, has mentioned in one of its report that employee engagement in the organisation plays a major role in the success of any organisation. Accordingly it says that the best way to increase the relation is by working out a strategy that builds positive environment and culture relations between the workers and ensuring a good leader to fit for the purpose. Leaders in the organisation can try to achieve a better employee engagement by listening to followers opinions, communicating his vision with a clarity, providing and developing strategies and solution for the success, and finally recognising the ability of the followers and praising their contributions. Thisaspect of leadership is displayed by general feedback, generating ideas and possess enthusiastic in requesting for help (Bradley P. Owens, 2013). One example of this leadership quality is described by DAVID J. BOBB(David J B, 2013) in his book saying following servant leadership is very difficult as it is not a natural talent to anyone. He takes the example of George Washington, though considered to be a man of high temper and showing excess pride in his capabilities and qualities during his period as a freedom fighter. As he has foreseen the global position he is getting