Winston Churchill

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Through the course of the development of human beings, prosperity favors those who can administer not only for oneself but for those around him. The Influence of one particular person in the 20^th century easily exhibited the many traits that are required to be qualified as a hero. Being a strong leader, determined to resist against ideas he believed were immoral, Winston Churchill showed that influencing a country through words and literature during times of great distress is very important and that his methods of leading his country were successful. This British prime minister was born on November 30, 1874 in Oxfordshire and is often described as the savior of his country. Churchill began to work in Parliament at the age of twenty-five, and began his career in the House of Commons. He was later appointed to several titles such as First Lord of the Admiralty and Chancellor of the Exchequer. He was an ardent scholar, author, and journalist, vocations that aided him in his career. He used his strengths to support himself to his success. Churchill provided guidance, willpower, and significance in society, proof that he is in fact a prominent figure of the time period. England could not have survived WWII if it weren't for his leadership. His actions in the face of war has earned him the title "Hero". In regards to his contribution to society as an accomplished author and the Prime Minister during the fight against Nazi Germany, Churchill deserves the title "hero" simply because he possesses leadership, determination, and the ability to influence others.

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Winston Churchill, upon being appointed Prime Minister, stated that he "had nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat." This quote is very agreeable and is a clear cut message of Churchill's character because everyone on this world can only offer blood, toil, tears, and sweat; It's what they do with it that counts. Winston avidly chose to expend his resources into being a successful leader and has received much praise in doing so. " His finest hour and that of the British people coincided. His leadership, which was expressed in noble speeches and ceaseless personal activity, stated precisely what Britain needed to survive through the years before the United States' entry into the war." ("Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill, Sir.") On September 3, 1939, Britain and France declared war on Germany and throughout the course of the war, the French begin to collapse. By June 22, 1940, France and Norway had surrendered, leaving Britain to fight alone without support. During that year Churchill made several interesting military decisions. The Battle of Britain, a battle campaign to be solely fought in the air, had begun and Churchill claims that this was "Britain's Finest Hour". After a whole 2 years of fighting, Britain managed to survive attacks from Germany until January 26, 1942; the day the US troops arrived in Britain. With the world in chaos with the attacks of Japan, and Germany, Churchill showed that he could lead a country with his strategic thinking and constant expression of hope to his people. In a time where Britain's forces were clearly outnumbered and lacked firepower, Churchill came out on top on numerous occasions. There are many other important dates that include August 14, 1940, the day where the Luftwaffe (German Air forces) lost over 70 aircraft in one day for example. Based on the information I have provided, I think it is safe to assume that there might not be a Britain today if it weren't for Churchill's actions as a leader because of the great results that were shown during his career. 

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In the words of Hannibal, "We will either find a way or make one." Churchill illustrated this trait of determination in many aspects of his life from his career as an author and his term in office. The previous Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain had resigned after his failure to form a coalition government (so that no party on its own can receive majority in the Parliament) and recommended Churchill to succeed him. His determination to fight against ideas that were immoral allowed him to carry on against Nazi Germany and eventually succeed and even after he knew he was out massed he continued the fight even when the French were defeated in the early days of the war. This meant he was able to take the harsh decisions required to win the war. For example, his order to sink the French fleet at Oran after the French sued for peace with the Nazis and refused alternative options to scuttle or sail to neutral waters. War is painful and tough and the leader has to be able to cope with this reality. After WWII ended and Churchill began to age, his body did not have the determination that he so blatantly possesses. "Churchill had suffered a mild stroke while on holiday in the south of France in the summer of 1949. In June 1953, when he was 78, Churchill suffered a more severe stroke at 10 Downing Street. News of this was kept from the public and from Parliament, who were told that Churchill was suffering from exhaustion" ("Winston Churchill, Sir"). Churchill ultimately had to end his campaign due to illness and soon after he passed his written works portraying his fight and his journey began to grow more popular. His actions have inspired me among other people to fight for what you believe in, even if others discourage it. "We shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender."

Winston Churchill was also well known for his books and essays. Many claim that "They are simply well written and are easy to understand, with all the warm immediacy of a radio chat"( "Winston Churchill on Liberalism and Socialism."). Along with his many famous speeches such as Their Finest Hour and Never Give In, Never, Never, Never, "Churchill went forward with courage, hope, and determination while supervising every aspect of the war effort. Utilizing his great oratorical skills in Parliament and over the radio, he inspired a defiance in the British people during the darkest days of their history." ("Winston Churchill on Liberalism and Socialism.")If he made a mistake he would be honest about it. When times were tough he was always a beacon of hope and encouragement (he did suffer from depression so this would have been quite a feat and shows the dedication of this man. Truth is eluded through most wars from most governments.) His would often discuss certain political details with his wife who was a very wise and often helpful aide for him. In a time of great confusion and anguish, Churchill showed that he could lead a country with strong words of inspiration and encouragement. Endowed upon him were the responsibilities to an entire country as he was able to help Britain survive up until the point in which the United States joined the war. By these actions he mainly showed his ability to lead others and guide them to prosperity. Of the many sources I have provided, all support my claim that Churchill had great influence during the war.

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After much analysis, it is obvious that it is impossible to judge anyone based on just one criteria. After proving that Winston Churchill is a hero because he possesses leadership, determination, and great Influence, I see that the entire collection of characteristics that defines a hero. Winston Churchill showed us what it takes to be a good leader in the face of great problems. By being a role model and a leader for his people, his country survived Hitler's regime to the point of where the US began to assist Britain. It is a notable achievement to be the savior of a country during chaos. A modern day equivalent would be if John McCain were to prevent a nuclear war between America and North Korea, and to have America withstand all advancing attacks until the rest of the world joined into the fight. Churchill exhibited a great force of determination not out of legal obligation, but out of an obligation to oneself and to their community. There was no driving force that made Churchill the Prime Minister. The position was forfeited by Chamberlain under George VI. His determination is what eventually led to his success and his earning of the title hero. Because Winston Churchill had so much to teach, he leaves us with great sources of knowledge for the future. Winston Churchill taught me that the price of greatness is responsibility.