23 September 2015
History 300 – Capt Prince - WA #1
Word Count: 1469
Both exemplary and poor leaders have come and gone throughout the passages of time. Whether they were adored by followers, instituted significant reform, or were proficient generals, some faired other the turmoil of leadership more successfully than others. After being provided several primary resources offering insight into the personal lives and leadership of Ashoka, Julius Caesar, Charlemagne, and Ashur-Nasir-Pal II, an analysis could be made regarding their effectiveness as leaders. Of these four leaders, I concluded that Charlemagne was the most effective ruler due to a combination of his followers admiration for him and his relatively significant changes to the Church which was a highly polarizing and integral part of society at the time. Furthermore, there were several self-eliminating factors amid this decision such as Ashur’s inclination towards excessive violence and conquest, Ashoka’s …show more content…
Aside from the general lack of direct reflection upon his leadership during this time, Einhard’s perspective in this instance may also present a skewed perception of Charlemagne as he is not only a close advisor, but also a close friend of Charlemagne’s. Regardless, the portrait depicted of Charlemagne is one of relative admiration amongst his followers. His combination of humility and devotion to his personal principles seem to have bid well within the context of his rule. By heavily investing in the church – charity and donations to even the most “lowly” positions in the church and taking on building projects to construct ornate churches – Charlemagne was able to promote a positive sphere of influence about