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Ken Lear is a business expert, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and leadership specialist.
The United States of America has had its share of defining moments that have motivated the whole nation. From the country’s inception in 1776 to the present day, American history is filled with inspiring people and events. These are a few standout Presidents and moments they participated in that defined what it means to be a leader with responsibility and integrity.
George Washington Becomes First U.S. President
The first president was also the commander in chief for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. On top of all that, he was a founding father that helped to create the USA that we know now. During his presidency, he attempted to bring rival groups together to unify the nation. He sought to use the government to preserve liberty, encourage markets, and promote American nationalism. The amount of effort and hard work put into forming this nation makes George Washington’s life one of the most inspiring Americans ever.
Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address
An inspiring leader and a gentle man, President Abraham Lincoln is considered one of the greatest presidents the U.S. ever had for many reasons. One of the most influential moments he in his presidency was the recital of the Gettysburg Address. In the speech, Lincoln spoke of the Civil War as a struggle for not only the Northern states, but also for human equality as a whole. He also memorialized those who had lost their lives to preserve democracy in America. The speech was a great motivator for the North, and is regarded as one of the best speeches of all time. Although his may have had a tragic death, America would not have been the same without the efforts of Honest Abe.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Unifies America After Pearl Harbor
After the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor killed thousands, something needed to be done to get the American spirit back together. President Roosevelt went on the radio and spoke his most historic speech to Congress, describing the Pearl Harbor attack as “a date which will live in infamy.” The whole country was moved: men volunteered for the armed forces, while women joined factories to build weapons and vehicles. The U.S. had entered into World War II, and was ready for any obstacles to come.
Lyndon B. Johnson Signs Civil Rights Movement Legislation
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. referred to the election of Lyndon B. Johnson as president in 1964 as “one of America’s finest hours.” Johnson was a large supporter of the civil rights movement, due to his belief that helping minorities succeed would be of economical and spiritual help to Americans. President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act in July 1964, and the Voting Rights Act in August 1965. He is remembered as a great president that wanted all voices to be heard, no matter the color of their skin.
Barack Obama’s Election & Inauguration
Before the Presidential election of 2008, every American president had been Caucasian. When Sen. Barack Obama defeated Sen. John McCain, the first African-American president was elected to office. This moment showed that the country was prepared to elect a leader who looked more the part of present day America: a country made of many different races and customs. The election and inauguration of Barack Obama signaled a new era in American history, one that all Americans would could proud of.
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