Famous People

Famous People Historical Figures and Role Models
All countries, despite cultural and religious differences, have historic figures and role models who represent their national values. These people define their country’s culture and show the world their nation’s best qualities. These figures may be politicians, or athletes, or even authors and artists.
	In India, parades and national holidays remember great leaders who showed the world the country’s best qualities. The world-famous Mahatma K. Gandhi advocated non-violence and fought for equality among the social classes. Gandhi also repaired Hindu-Muslim relations in the country at a time of great political and religious unrest. The great figure was unfortunately assassinated. He had still managed to communicate what the modern India was like to the world.
	In the United States, for example, presidents like Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy are taught about in schools and remain some of the most important people in creating and defining the U.S. The “Founding Fathers”, who laid out the first real “law of the land” are big figures in American history. Martin Luther King Jr., the famous Civil Rights Movement leader in the U.S. has now become a national holiday. Most of these famous U.S. citizens are only men, however. Women must continue to fight for their recognition in being just as valid national role models.

Leading Questions: Email us your ideas at

• Who is your biggest role model?
• Do you learn about other countries’ role models at school?
• Which of your culture’s values is most important to you? Is there
a national figure that represents this quality?
• Who would you like to see as a next role model for your country?
(U.S.: woman, non-white, non- Protestant, etc...)

Brooke, grade 8, from California, USA, says:

"I think learning about other countries' leaders and role models is a fantastic way to learn about the other countries and what they value..."

"America, and Silicon Valley in particular, have a great attitude about dreams-- If you want it, you can have it if you work hard. Because this country was built on dreamers, we encourage others and support their dreams."

Lindsay, grade 8, from California, USA, says:

"I would love to see a female become president of the United States, and anyone other than the Caucasian race."

Bibliography:

“Mahatma Gandhi.” Manas History and Politics of India Home Page.
31 Jan. 2005. <http://www.sscnet.ucla.edu/southasia/History/Gandhi/
gandhi.html>.

“Martin Luther King Jr.” African American Diaspora Home Page. 6
Feb. 2005. <http://www.africanamericans.com/Maya%20Angelou/
MartinLutherKingHistory.jpg>.

“Gandhi.” Cronologia Home Page. 6 Feb. 2005.
< http://www.cronologia.it/storia/biografie/gandhi.jpg>.