What is political leadership?

[Irish_Dem]

6. Excellent comments, Bucolic.

I have some disagreements or additions to your comments:

All leaders are human beings first, leaders second.
We know humans can be deeply flawed on a personal level.

But in my opinion, the right question is: despite their personal flaws and mistakes,
can a leader make a significant contribution to the world.
Can they leave the planet a better place?

If we discount leaders with personal foibles then we have to discount all leaders.
This is a tough planet full of complex people.

FDR, Churchill and Eisenhower saved many lives and successfully led the world through
one of its darkest times. We owe much to them.

Thomas Jefferson is one of the most important political geniuses in the history of the world.
His Declaration of Independence stands along side the Magna Carta in importance.
I personally see the Declaration of Independence as a sacred document, but that is another OP.

Even good leaders must have ruthless streak. They must do what they have to do to preserve their country and people. They must make hard decisions and keep their eye on the ball. Where the line is can be up for debate.

Yes we are better off than 400 years ago, but it doesn't always feel like it.