Spirit of Leadership

WHAT IS A TRUE LEADER? but also that of a whole nation, as he influenced a change in the fundamental laws of the land. Dr. King had a vision that he was willing to live—and die—for. Sir Winston Churchill During World War II, before the United States entered the war, Great Britain was an underdog, fighting single handedly to save not only England, but also most of Europe, from being overrun and ruled by Nazi Germany. Their leader was Winston Churchill, who was considered washed up in politics before becoming prime minister at the age of sixty-six. Later, he wrote, “I felt as if I was walking with des tiny, and that all my past life had been but a preparation for this hour and for this trial.” 5 Winston Churchill’s speeches during this time of national crisis reveal his sense of purpose. He inspired the English people to believe that parliamentary democracy and freedom were valuable enough to fight and even die for. His purpose produced a tireless passion to prevail, and his confident, cheerful manner and powerful speeches are credited with keeping the morale of the English people strong when they faced seemingly impossible odds. One of his most famous sayings was, “Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never —in nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense.” 6 His speech, “Their Finest Hour,” is clear evi dence of his ability to inspire those who were looking to him for leadership: “N EVER GIVEN IN , NEVER GIVE IN — NEVER , NEVER , NEVER , NEVER .”

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