Michael H. Hart’s book, The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, published in 1978, is an ambitious attempt to identify and rank the most influential individuals in human history. Hart, an astrophysicist and historian, approaches this monumental task with a blend of quantitative analysis and qualitative assessment. The book has sparked considerable debate and discussion due to its subjective nature and the contentious choices of individuals. This biography explores Hart’s selection, providing insights into the lives and contributions of these influential figures. Here is an overview of the list and the reasons behind their inclusion.
1. Muhammad (570-632)
Michael H. Hart placed the Prophet Muhammad at the top of his list, citing his profound influence on both the religious and political spheres. Muhammad founded Islam, one of the world’s major religions, and unified the Arabian Peninsula under a single religious and political entity. His teachings and the Quran, the holy book of Islam, have deeply impacted the lives of billions and shaped the course of history for over a millennium.
2. Isaac Newton (1643-1727)
Isaac Newton’s contributions to science and mathematics are monumental. His formulation of the laws of motion and universal gravitation laid the foundation for classical mechanics. Newton’s work in optics and calculus also revolutionized these fields. His book Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica is one of the most important works in the history of science, influencing countless scientific developments.
3. Jesus Christ (4 BC – AD 30/33)
As the central figure in Christianity, Jesus Christ’s teachings and life story have profoundly influenced Western civilization and beyond. Christianity, based on his teachings, is one of the world’s largest religions, shaping the moral and cultural framework of societies for centuries. Jesus’ impact on religion, philosophy, and history is undeniable, making him one of the most significant figures in human history.
4. Buddha (563/480 – 483/400 BC)
Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, founded Buddhism, a major world religion that has influenced millions across Asia and beyond. His teachings on suffering, compassion, and the path to enlightenment have shaped philosophical and spiritual thought for over two millennia. Buddhism’s impact on culture, art, and ethics is profound, making Buddha a key figure in global history.
5. Confucius (551-479 BC)
Confucius was a Chinese teacher, editor, politician, and philosopher whose ideas have deeply influenced Chinese civilization and other East Asian cultures. His teachings on ethics, family loyalty, and social harmony are compiled in the Analects and have guided Chinese society for centuries. Confucianism has played a critical role in shaping the moral and social structures of East Asian societies.
6. St. Paul (5-67)
St. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a pivotal figure in the spread of Christianity. His missionary journeys and epistles to various Christian communities helped establish the theological foundation of the early Church. Paul’s interpretation of Jesus’ teachings and his role in spreading Christianity to non-Jews were instrumental in transforming it into a global religion.
7. Ts’ai Lun (50-121)
Ts’ai Lun, a Chinese eunuch and official, is traditionally credited with inventing paper around AD 105. This invention revolutionized communication, education, and record-keeping, making it easier to disseminate information and knowledge. The widespread use of paper has had a lasting impact on civilizations worldwide, facilitating the growth of literacy and the preservation of history.
8. Johann Gutenberg (c. 1400-1468)
Johann Gutenberg’s invention of the movable-type printing press in the mid-15th century revolutionized the production of books and the dissemination of knowledge. The Gutenberg Bible, printed around 1455, marked the beginning of the mass production of books, leading to the spread of literacy, the Reformation, and the Scientific Revolution. Gutenberg’s printing press is considered one of the most important inventions in human history.
9. Christopher Columbus (1451-1506)
Christopher Columbus’s voyages across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492 opened up the Americas to European exploration and colonization. While his expeditions had devastating effects on indigenous populations, they also led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the Old and New Worlds, known as the Columbian Exchange. Columbus’s journeys fundamentally altered the course of world history.
10. Albert Einstein (1879-1955)
Albert Einstein, one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century, developed the theory of relativity, which revolutionized the understanding of space, time, and energy. His famous equation E=mc² and his contributions to quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics have had a profound impact on modern physics. Einstein’s work has influenced various fields, including cosmology, nuclear energy, and technology.
11. Louis Pasteur (1822-1895)
Louis Pasteur was a pioneering French microbiologist and chemist whose discoveries in vaccination, microbial fermentation, and pasteurization have saved countless lives. His work laid the foundations for germ theory and modern microbiology. Pasteur’s contributions to medicine, particularly in developing vaccines for rabies and anthrax, have had a lasting impact on public health.
12. Galileo Galilei (1564-1642)
Galileo Galilei, an Italian astronomer, physicist, and engineer, played a crucial role in the Scientific Revolution. His improvements to the telescope and subsequent astronomical observations supported the Copernican heliocentric model. Galileo’s work in mechanics, motion, and the scientific method laid the groundwork for modern science. His conflict with the Catholic Church highlighted the tension between science and religion.
13. Aristotle (384-322 BC)
Aristotle, an ancient Greek philosopher and polymath, made significant contributions to various fields, including logic, metaphysics, ethics, politics, biology, and zoology. His works shaped Western thought and were central to medieval scholasticism and the Renaissance. Aristotle’s influence extends to various disciplines, making him one of the most important figures in Western intellectual history.
14. Euclid (c. 300 BC)
Euclid, often referred to as the “father of geometry,” was a Greek mathematician whose work Elements is one of the most influential textbooks in the history of mathematics. Euclid’s systematic approach to geometry laid the foundations for modern mathematics and influenced many subsequent mathematicians and scientists. His work remains a cornerstone in the study of mathematics.
15. Moses
Moses is a central figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. According to religious tradition, he led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage and received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. Moses’s role in shaping the laws and ethical foundations of Western civilization is significant, and his story has been a source of inspiration for millennia.
16. Charles Darwin (1809-1882)
Charles Darwin, an English naturalist and biologist, is best known for his theory of evolution by natural selection, detailed in his seminal work On the Origin of Species. Darwin’s ideas revolutionized the understanding of life on Earth and had a profound impact on biology, genetics, and the study of human origins. His theory remains a cornerstone of modern biological science.
17. Shih Huang Ti (259-210 BC)
Shih Huang Ti, also known as Qin Shi Huang, was the first emperor of a unified China. He established the Qin Dynasty and implemented significant reforms, including standardized writing, currency, weights, and measures. Qin Shi Huang’s construction of the Great Wall and his centralization of power had a lasting impact on Chinese history and culture.
18. Augustus Caesar (63 BC – AD 14)
Augustus Caesar, the first emperor of Rome, transformed the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. His reign marked the beginning of the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability across the empire. Augustus’s political and administrative reforms laid the foundations for the longevity of the Roman Empire, influencing the course of Western civilization.
19. Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543)
Nicolaus Copernicus, a Renaissance mathematician and astronomer, proposed the heliocentric model of the solar system, placing the Sun at the center rather than the Earth. His work De revolutionibus orbium coelestium challenged the geocentric model and paved the way for the Scientific Revolution. Copernicus’s ideas fundamentally changed the understanding of the cosmos.
20. Antoine Lavoisier (1743-1794)
Antoine Lavoisier, a French chemist, is often referred to as the “father of modern chemistry.” His work on the law of conservation of mass, the development of the modern system of chemical nomenclature, and the identification of oxygen and hydrogen were groundbreaking. Lavoisier’s contributions laid the foundations for modern chemical science.
21. Constantine the Great (272-337)
Constantine the Great was the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. His Edict of Milan in 313 AD granted religious tolerance to Christians and ended their persecution. Constantine’s support for Christianity helped it spread throughout the Roman Empire, profoundly shaping the religious landscape of Europe and the Western world.
22. James Watt (1736-1819)
James Watt, a Scottish engineer and inventor, improved the design of the steam engine, making it more efficient and practical for industrial use. Watt’s enhancements to the steam engine played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, transforming industries and economies. His contributions to engineering and technology had a lasting impact on industrialization.
23. Michael Faraday (1791-1867)
Michael Faraday, an English scientist, made significant contributions to the study of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. His discoveries include electromagnetic induction, diamagnetism, and electrolysis. Faraday’s work laid the groundwork for the practical use of electricity and influenced later scientists, including James Clerk Maxwell. Faraday’s contributions to physics and chemistry have had a profound impact on technology and industrial processes.
24. James Clerk Maxwell (1831-1879)
James Clerk Maxwell, a Scottish physicist, is renowned for his formulation of the classical theory of electromagnetic radiation. Maxwell’s equations unified electricity, magnetism, and optics into a coherent theory. His work paved the way for modern physics, influencing fields such as quantum mechanics and relativity. Maxwell’s contributions are fundamental to our understanding of electromagnetic waves and their applications.
25. Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Martin Luther, a German theologian and religious reformer, initiated the Protestant Reformation by challenging the practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church. His Ninety-Five Theses, posted in 1517, criticized the sale of indulgences and other church practices. Luther’s translation of the Bible into German made it more accessible to the general populace, fostering religious and cultural change across Europe.
26. George Washington (1732-1799)
George Washington, the first President of the United States and a Founding Father, played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War and the establishment of the United States. His leadership as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and his role in the drafting of the Constitution helped lay the foundations of American democracy. Washington’s presidency set many precedents for the future governance of the nation.
27. Karl Marx (1818-1883)
Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, and political theorist, is best known for his works The Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital. Marx’s critique of capitalism and his theories on class struggle, historical materialism, and the labor theory of value have had a profound influence on political thought and movements worldwide. Marxism has shaped various socio-political ideologies and revolutions.
28. Orville and Wilbur Wright (1871-1948, 1867-1912)
Orville and Wilbur Wright, American aviation pioneers, are credited with inventing and building the world’s first successful powered airplane. Their first controlled, sustained flight in 1903 marked the beginning of modern aviation. The Wright brothers’ innovations in aerodynamics, control systems, and aircraft design laid the groundwork for the development of the aviation industry.
29. Genghis Khan (c. 1162-1227)
Genghis Khan, the founder and first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, created the largest contiguous empire in history. His military strategies, conquests, and unification of the Mongol tribes transformed the geopolitical landscape of Asia and Europe. Genghis Khan’s legacy includes significant cultural exchanges and the spread of technologies along the Silk Road.
30. Adam Smith (1723-1790)
Adam Smith, a Scottish economist and philosopher, is best known for his work An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. Smith’s ideas on free markets, the division of labor, and the “invisible hand” of the market laid the foundations for modern economics. His theories have profoundly influenced economic thought and policy.
31. William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
William Shakespeare, an English playwright and poet, is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. His works, including Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, and Othello, have had a lasting impact on literature, theater, and the arts. Shakespeare’s exploration of human nature, his innovative use of language, and his contributions to drama and poetry continue to resonate globally.
32. John Dalton (1766-1844)
John Dalton, an English chemist, physicist, and meteorologist, is best known for his pioneering work in the development of modern atomic theory. Dalton’s research on the properties of gases and his law of partial pressures contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical reactions and the nature of matter. His atomic theory laid the groundwork for modern chemistry.
33. Alexander the Great (356-323 BC)
Alexander the Great, the king of Macedon, created one of the largest empires in ancient history through his military conquests. His campaigns spread Greek culture and ideas across the known world, leading to the Hellenistic era. Alexander’s legacy includes the blending of cultures, the founding of cities, and significant advancements in art, science, and philosophy.
34. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821)
Napoleon Bonaparte, a French military and political leader, rose to prominence during the French Revolution and its subsequent wars. As Emperor of the French, he implemented significant legal and administrative reforms, including the Napoleonic Code, which influenced legal systems worldwide. Napoleon’s military campaigns reshaped Europe and had a lasting impact on its political landscape.
35. Thomas Edison (1847-1931)
Thomas Edison, an American inventor and businessman, is credited with numerous inventions that have had a profound impact on modern life, including the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and the electric light bulb. Edison’s contributions to the development of electrical power generation and distribution systems revolutionized industry and everyday life.
36. Antony van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723)
Antony van Leeuwenhoek, a Dutch scientist, is often regarded as the “father of microbiology.” He improved the microscope and became the first to observe and describe single-celled organisms, including bacteria and protozoa. Leeuwenhoek’s discoveries laid the foundation for the field of microbiology and advanced the understanding of the microscopic world.
37. William T.G. Morton (1819-1868)
William Thomas Green Morton, an American dentist and physician, is credited with the first public demonstration of surgical anesthesia using ether. His successful demonstration at Massachusetts General Hospital in 1846 revolutionized surgery by eliminating pain and making complex procedures possible. Morton’s use of ether as an anesthetic marked a significant milestone in medical history and transformed surgical practice worldwide.
38. Guglielmo Marconi (1874-1937)
Guglielmo Marconi, an Italian inventor and electrical engineer, is credited with the development of long-distance radio transmission. His pioneering work in wireless communication led to the invention of the first practical radio telegraph system, which revolutionized global communication. Marconi’s innovations laid the foundation for modern telecommunications and earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1909.
39. Adolf Hitler (1889-1945)
Adolf Hitler, the leader of the Nazi Party and Chancellor of Germany from 1933 to 1945, is one of the most notorious figures in history. His aggressive expansionist policies led to World War II and the Holocaust, resulting in the genocide of six million Jews and millions of others deemed undesirable by the Nazi regime. Hitler’s totalitarian rule and racist ideology had devastating consequences, leaving a profound mark on the 20th century and shaping subsequent efforts to prevent such atrocities.
40. Plato (c. 428-348 BC)
Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher and student of Socrates, made significant contributions to Western philosophy, science, and political theory. His works, including The Republic and The Symposium, explore ideas about justice, knowledge, and the ideal state. Plato’s establishment of the Academy laid the groundwork for formal education and philosophical inquiry.
41. Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658)
Oliver Cromwell, an English military and political leader, played a key role in the English Civil War and the establishment of the Commonwealth of England. As Lord Protector, Cromwell implemented significant political and religious reforms. His leadership during this turbulent period in British history had a lasting impact on the development of constitutional government.
42. Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922)
Alexander Graham Bell, a Scottish-born inventor, scientist, and teacher, is best known for inventing the telephone. His work in telecommunications revolutionized communication, making it possible to connect people over long distances. Bell’s contributions to speech and hearing science, as well as his inventions, have had a profound impact on society.
43. Alexander Fleming (1881-1955)
Alexander Fleming, a Scottish bacteriologist, discovered penicillin, the world’s first antibiotic, in 1928. Fleming’s discovery revolutionized medicine, leading to the development of antibiotics that have saved countless lives by treating bacterial infections. His work laid the foundation for modern antimicrobial therapy.
44. John Locke (1632-1704)
John Locke, an English philosopher and physician, is regarded as one of the most influential Enlightenment thinkers. His theories on government, natural rights, and the social contract, outlined in works such as Two Treatises of Government, significantly influenced the development of modern political philosophy and liberal democracy. Locke’s ideas on liberty, equality, and property have had a lasting impact on political thought and practice.
45. Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)
Ludwig van Beethoven, a German composer and pianist, is one of the most influential figures in Western classical music. His compositions, including symphonies, concertos, and sonatas, expanded the boundaries of musical form and expression. Beethoven’s innovative use of harmony, rhythm, and orchestration had a profound impact on the development of music.
46. Werner Heisenberg (1901-1976)
Werner Heisenberg, a German physicist, is best known for his development of quantum mechanics and the uncertainty principle, which states that the position and momentum of a particle cannot both be precisely determined at the same time. Heisenberg’s contributions to theoretical physics revolutionized the understanding of atomic and subatomic processes.
47. Louis Daguerre (1787-1851)
Louis Daguerre, a French artist and inventor, is credited with the invention of the daguerreotype, an early form of photography. His development of a practical photographic process made it possible to capture images permanently, revolutionizing the visual arts and communication. Daguerre’s work laid the foundation for modern photography.
48. Simon Bolivar (1783-1830)
Simon Bolivar, a Venezuelan military and political leader, played a key role in the liberation of several South American countries from Spanish rule. Known as “El Libertador,” Bolivar led military campaigns that resulted in the independence of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. His efforts to unify the region and establish republican governments had a lasting impact on Latin America.
49. René Descartes (1596-1650)
René Descartes, a French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist, is considered one of the founders of modern philosophy. His work Meditations on First Philosophy introduced the method of doubt and the famous dictum “Cogito, ergo sum” (“I think, therefore I am”). Descartes’ contributions to mathematics include the development of Cartesian coordinates and analytical geometry.
50. Michelangelo (1475-1564)
Michelangelo Buonarroti, an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet, is considered one of the greatest artists of all time. His masterpieces include the statue of David, the Pietà, and the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo’s contributions to art and architecture during the Renaissance had a profound impact on Western art, influencing countless artists and shaping the course of art history.
51. Pope Urban II (1042-1099)
Pope Urban II is best known for initiating the First Crusade in 1095, a pivotal event that aimed to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim rule. His call to arms united European Christians and set the stage for several centuries of religious and military conflict between Christendom and Islam. The Crusades had significant social, economic, and political consequences for Europe and the Middle East.
52. ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (c. 584-644)
‘Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, played a crucial role in the early expansion of Islam. Under his leadership, the Islamic Empire grew rapidly, conquering significant portions of the Byzantine and Sassanian Empires. ‘Umar’s administrative reforms and establishment of a legal code helped to stabilize and govern the rapidly expanding empire.
53. Asoka (c. 304-232 BC)
Asoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was an Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled almost the entire Indian subcontinent. After a particularly brutal military campaign, he converted to Buddhism and embraced nonviolence and dharma (moral law). Asoka’s support for Buddhism helped spread the religion across Asia, and his edicts promoting social and moral welfare had a lasting impact on Indian society.
54. St. Augustine (354-430)
St. Augustine of Hippo was an early Christian theologian and philosopher whose writings influenced the development of Western Christianity and philosophy. His works, including Confessions and The City of God, addressed theological issues such as the nature of God, sin, and grace. Augustine’s ideas shaped Christian doctrine and had a profound influence on medieval thought and the Reformation.
55. William Harvey (1578-1657)
William Harvey, an English physician, is best known for his discovery of the circulation of blood and the function of the heart. His work De Motu Cordis (On the Motion of the Heart and Blood) revolutionized the understanding of the human body and laid the foundation for modern physiology and medicine.
56. Ernest Rutherford (1871-1937)
Ernest Rutherford, a New Zealand-born physicist, is known as the father of nuclear physics. His pioneering research on the structure of the atom, including the discovery of the nucleus and the development of the Rutherford model, fundamentally changed the understanding of atomic structure. Rutherford’s work laid the groundwork for the development of quantum mechanics and nuclear science.
57. John Calvin (1509-1564)
John Calvin, a French theologian and pastor, was a leading figure in the Protestant Reformation. His theological writings, particularly Institutes of the Christian Religion, emphasized the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the authority of the Bible. Calvinism, based on his teachings, had a profound impact on the development of Protestant churches and Western society.
58. Gregor Mendel (1822-1884)
Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk and scientist, is known as the father of genetics. His experiments with pea plants led to the discovery of the fundamental laws of inheritance, including the concepts of dominant and recessive traits. Mendel’s work, largely unrecognized during his lifetime, became the foundation for the field of genetics and the study of heredity.
59. Max Planck (1858-1947)
Max Planck, a German theoretical physicist, is best known for his role in the development of quantum theory. His introduction of the quantum hypothesis, which posits that energy is emitted in discrete units or “quanta,” revolutionized the understanding of atomic and subatomic processes. Planck’s work laid the foundation for modern physics and earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918.
60. Joseph Lister (1827-1912)
Joseph Lister, an English surgeon, pioneered the use of antiseptic techniques in surgery. His application of carbolic acid to sterilize surgical instruments and clean wounds dramatically reduced infection rates and mortality. Lister’s work transformed surgical practice and laid the groundwork for modern aseptic techniques in medicine.
61. Nikolaus August Otto (1832-1891)
Nikolaus August Otto, a German engineer, is credited with developing the first practical internal combustion engine powered by gasoline. The Otto engine, which operates on the four-stroke cycle, revolutionized transportation and industry. Otto’s invention laid the foundation for the development of automobiles and other motorized vehicles.
62. Francisco Pizarro (c. 1471-1541)
Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador, led the expedition that conquered the Inca Empire in South America. His campaigns resulted in the colonization of vast territories in the Americas and the establishment of Spanish rule. Pizarro’s conquests had significant cultural, economic, and demographic impacts on the indigenous populations and the course of history.
63. Hernán Cortés (1485-1547)
Hernán Cortés, a Spanish conquistador, led the expedition that resulted in the fall of the Aztec Empire. His conquests in Mexico brought large portions of the Americas under Spanish control, leading to significant cultural and demographic changes. Cortés’s actions played a crucial role in the spread of European influence in the New World.
64. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
Thomas Jefferson, an American Founding Father, was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third President of the United States. His contributions to the founding principles of the nation, including his advocacy for individual rights and democratic governance, have had a lasting impact on American political thought and institutions.
65. Queen Isabella I (1451-1504)
Queen Isabella I of Castile, along with her husband Ferdinand II of Aragon, played a key role in the unification of Spain. She sponsored Christopher Columbus’s voyages to the New World, leading to the expansion of the Spanish Empire. Isabella’s reign also marked the beginning of the Spanish Inquisition and significant religious and political changes in Spain.
66. Joseph Stalin (1878-1953)
Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union from the mid-1920s until his death, was a central figure in the establishment of a totalitarian regime and the transformation of the Soviet Union into a global superpower. His policies, including collectivization, industrialization, and the Great Purge, had profound and often devastating effects on Soviet society and the world.
67. Julius Caesar (100-44 BC)
Julius Caesar, a Roman general and statesman, played a critical role in the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. His military conquests, including the Gallic Wars, expanded Roman territories significantly. Caesar’s centralization of power and his assassination on the Ides of March marked a turning point in Roman history.
68. William the Conqueror (c. 1028-1087)
William the Conqueror, the first Norman King of England, successfully invaded and conquered England in 1066. His victory at the Battle of Hastings and subsequent rule established Norman dominance and significantly influenced English culture, language, and governance. William’s reign laid the foundations for the modern British state.
69. Sigmund Freud (1856-1939)
Sigmund Freud, an Austrian neurologist and the founder of psychoanalysis, profoundly influenced the fields of psychology, psychiatry, and the study of human behavior. His theories on the unconscious mind, the structure of personality, and the significance of dreams and childhood experiences have had a lasting impact on both clinical practice and cultural understanding.
70. Edward Jenner (1749-1823)
Edward Jenner, an English physician, is credited with developing the first successful smallpox vaccine, a groundbreaking achievement in medical history. Jenner’s use of cowpox to confer immunity against smallpox laid the foundation for the field of immunology and the development of vaccines, which have saved countless lives.
71. Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen (1845-1923)
Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, a German physicist, discovered X-rays in 1895, a breakthrough that revolutionized medical diagnostics. Röntgen’s discovery of this previously unknown form of radiation earned him the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901 and had a profound impact on medical science, allowing for non-invasive imaging of the human body.
72. Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Johann Sebastian Bach, a German composer and musician, is one of the most influential figures in the history of Western music. His compositions, including the Brandenburg Concertos, The Well-Tempered Clavier, and the Mass in B minor, are considered masterpieces of Baroque music. Bach’s innovative use of harmony, counterpoint, and musical form has had a lasting impact on subsequent composers and the development of classical music.
73. Laozi (c. 6th century BC)
Laozi, also known as Lao Tzu, is traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism (Taoism) and the author of the Tao Te Ching, a fundamental text of Daoist philosophy. His teachings on the Dao (the Way), simplicity, and living in harmony with nature have deeply influenced Chinese culture, philosophy, and spirituality.
74. Voltaire (1694-1778)
Voltaire, a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher, was a leading advocate for civil liberties, freedom of speech, and separation of church and state. His satirical works, such as Candide, criticized the injustices and dogmas of his time. Voltaire’s advocacy for reason, tolerance, and individual rights had a lasting influence on the development of modern democratic and liberal thought.
75. Johannes Kepler (1571-1630)
Johannes Kepler, a German astronomer, made significant contributions to the field of astronomy and planetary motion. His three laws of planetary motion, published in Astronomia Nova and Harmonices Mundi, laid the foundation for Isaac Newton’s law of universal gravitation and revolutionized our understanding of the solar system. Kepler’s work helped pave the way for the Scientific Revolution and the advancement of modern astronomy.
76. Enrico Fermi (1901-1954)
Enrico Fermi, an Italian-American physicist, made significant contributions to nuclear physics and quantum theory. He is best known for his work on the development of the first nuclear reactor and his contributions to the development of quantum theory, nuclear and particle physics, and statistical mechanics. Fermi’s achievements in both theoretical and experimental physics were pivotal in the development of atomic energy and the atomic bomb.
77. Leonhard Euler (1707-1783)
Leonhard Euler, a Swiss mathematician, is regarded as one of the greatest mathematicians of all time. His prolific contributions to mathematics, including work in calculus, number theory, graph theory, and mechanics, have had a profound impact on various branches of science and engineering. Euler’s theorems, formulas, and notation revolutionized mathematics and laid the foundation for much of modern mathematical analysis.
78. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778)
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a Genevan philosopher, writer, and composer, was one of the most influential figures of the Enlightenment. His works, including The Social Contract and Emile, had a profound impact on political theory, education, and literature. Rousseau’s ideas on democracy, freedom, and the role of the individual in society laid the groundwork for modern political philosophy and inspired revolutions across the globe.
79. Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527)
Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian Renaissance diplomat, philosopher, and writer, is best known for his political treatise The Prince. In this work, Machiavelli examines the acquisition and maintenance of political power, advocating for pragmatic and sometimes ruthless methods to achieve political goals. His ideas about the nature of leadership, the relationship between rulers and their subjects, and the use of cunning and force have had a profound impact on political theory and practice. Machiavelli’s work sparked controversy and debate, shaping perceptions of politics and leadership for centuries to come.
80. Thomas Robert Malthus (1766-1834)
Thomas Robert Malthus, a British economist and demographer, is best known for his theory of population growth outlined in his work An Essay on the Principle of Population. Malthus argued that population tends to grow exponentially while food production increases at a slower rate, leading to inevitable checks on population growth such as famine, disease, and war. His ideas on population dynamics and resource scarcity had a profound impact on economics, sociology, and public policy, influencing debates on poverty, sustainability, and social welfare.
81. John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)
John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, served during a critical period of the Cold War. His administration was marked by significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the establishment of the Peace Corps, and the push for civil rights. Kennedy’s vision for space exploration led to the Apollo moon landing program. His assassination in 1963 was a pivotal moment in American history.
82. Gregory Pincus (1903-1967)
Gregory Pincus, an American biologist and researcher, co-invented the first oral contraceptive pill. His work in reproductive biology and endocrinology revolutionized birth control and had a profound impact on social and cultural attitudes towards sex, family planning, and women’s rights. The development of the pill provided women with unprecedented control over their reproductive health.
83. Mani (c. 216-276)
Mani was the founder of Manichaeism, a gnostic religion that combined elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism. Mani’s teachings, which emphasized a dualistic cosmology of light and darkness, spread widely across the Roman Empire, Persia, and beyond. Though the religion eventually declined, its influence can be seen in various religious and philosophical traditions.
84. Lenin (1870-1924)
Vladimir Lenin, a Russian revolutionary leader, was the principal figure in the establishment of the Soviet Union and the Bolshevik seizure of power in the October Revolution of 1917. Lenin’s implementation of Marxist theory and his leadership of the Soviet state significantly influenced the course of the 20th century, shaping communist ideology and inspiring revolutionary movements worldwide.
85. Sui Wen Ti (541-604)
Sui Wen Ti, also known as Emperor Wen of Sui, was the founder of the Sui Dynasty in China. His reign marked the reunification of China after centuries of fragmentation. Sui Wen Ti’s policies, including centralized administration and infrastructural projects like the Grand Canal, laid the groundwork for the subsequent Tang Dynasty and helped restore stability and prosperity to China.
86. Vasco da Gama (c. 1460-1524)
Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer, was the first European to reach India by sea, establishing a maritime route around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope in 1498. His voyages opened up the sea-based spice trade between Europe and Asia, significantly impacting global commerce and leading to Portuguese colonial dominance in the Indian Ocean.
87. Cyrus the Great (c. 600-530 BC)
Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, is renowned for his military conquests and statesmanship. He united the Persian tribes and created one of the largest empires of the ancient world, stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Indus River. Cyrus is also remembered for his progressive policies, such as the Cyrus Cylinder, which some regard as an early charter of human rights.
88. Peter the Great (1672-1725)
Peter the Great, the Tsar of Russia, is celebrated for his extensive reforms that modernized Russia and transformed it into a major European power. His efforts to westernize Russian society, government, and military included founding the city of St. Petersburg, expanding the navy, and reorganizing the administrative structure. Peter’s reign significantly altered the trajectory of Russian history, laying the foundation for its emergence as a significant global player.
89. Mao Zedong (1893-1976)
Mao Zedong, the leader of the Chinese Communist Party, played a central role in the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. His policies, including the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, had profound and often devastating effects on Chinese society and economy. Despite the controversies surrounding his rule, Mao’s impact on China’s development and communist ideology is undeniable.
90. Francis Bacon (1561-1626)
Francis Bacon, an English philosopher, statesman, and scientist, developed the empirical method, which laid the foundation for modern scientific inquiry. His works, including Novum Organum, emphasized the importance of observation, experimentation, and inductive reasoning. Bacon’s ideas significantly influenced the development of the scientific method and the advancement of knowledge in various fields.
91. Henry Ford (1863-1947)
Henry Ford, an American industrialist, founded the Ford Motor Company and revolutionized the automobile industry with his introduction of assembly line production techniques. Ford’s innovations in mass production made automobiles affordable and accessible to the general public, transforming transportation and contributing significantly to the industrialization of the 20th century.
92. Mencius (c. 372-289 BC)
Mencius, also known as Mengzi, was a Chinese philosopher and one of the most prominent interpreters of Confucianism. His teachings, which emphasized the inherent goodness of human nature and the importance of benevolent governance, have had a lasting influence on Chinese thought and culture. Mencius’ ideas on ethics, politics, and human nature continue to be studied and revered in East Asian philosophy.
93. Zoroaster (c. 1000 BC)
Zoroaster, also known as Zarathustra, was an ancient Persian prophet and the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions. His teachings, which emphasize the duality of good and evil, the importance of individual choice, and the concept of an eternal struggle between light and darkness, have had a profound impact on religious thought and influenced other major world religions.
94. Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603)
Queen Elizabeth I of England, known as the “Virgin Queen,” reigned during a period of significant cultural, political, and economic change known as the Elizabethan Era. Her leadership helped stabilize England after religious turmoil, and she oversaw the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Elizabeth’s reign is celebrated for its flourishing of English drama and literature, including the works of William Shakespeare, and for strengthening England’s influence on the world stage.
95. Mikhail Gorbachev (1931-2022)
Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, is known for his policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring), which aimed to reform the Soviet political and economic system. Gorbachev’s efforts to reduce Cold War tensions and his role in the dissolution of the Soviet Union significantly influenced global politics and the end of the Cold War. His leadership marked a pivotal transition in the history of the 20th century.
96. Menes (c. 3200-3000 BC)
Menes, also known as Narmer, is traditionally regarded as the unifier of Upper and Lower Egypt and the founder of the First Dynasty of ancient Egypt. His unification of Egypt marked the beginning of a centralized state and the development of one of the world’s earliest and most influential civilizations. Menes’ reign laid the foundations for the cultural and political achievements of ancient Egypt.
97. Charlemagne (c. 742-814)
Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, was the King of the Franks and Lombards and Emperor of the Carolingian Empire. His reign marked the Carolingian Renaissance, a revival of art, culture, and learning based on classical models. Charlemagne’s expansion of his empire and his efforts to consolidate Christian Europe under a centralized rule had a lasting impact on European history and the development of medieval Christendom.
98. Homer (c. 8th century BC)
Homer, the legendary ancient Greek poet, is traditionally attributed with composing the epic poems The Iliad and The Odyssey. These works are cornerstones of Western literature and have had a profound influence on Western culture, literature, and art. Homer’s epics, which explore themes of heroism, fate, and the human condition, continue to be studied and revered for their literary and historical significance.
99. Justinian I (c. 482-565)
Justinian I, also known as Justinian the Great, was Byzantine Emperor from 527 to 565. His reign marked a significant period of expansion, reconquest, and legal reform in the Byzantine Empire. Justinian’s most notable achievement was the codification of Roman law, which resulted in the Corpus Juris Civilis, a comprehensive compilation of Roman legal principles that formed the basis of civil law in many modern legal systems. Additionally, Justinian sought to restore the territorial integrity of the Roman Empire by launching military campaigns to reclaim lost territories in the West, most notably in Italy and North Africa. His reign also witnessed the construction of several architectural marvels, including the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, which remains an iconic symbol of Byzantine architecture. Justinian’s legacy as a lawgiver, military leader, and patron of the arts and architecture has left an indelible mark on the history of the Byzantine Empire and the broader Mediterranean world.
100. Mahavira (599-527 BC)
Mahavira, also known as Vardhamana, was an Indian ascetic and sage who founded Jainism, one of the oldest religions in the world. His teachings emphasized non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, and asceticism, forming the core principles of Jain philosophy. Mahavira’s influence on Indian spirituality and ethical thought has endured for over two millennia, shaping the beliefs and practices of millions of followers.
Conclusion
Michael H. Hart’s “The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History” provides a fascinating insight into the lives and legacies of individuals who have shaped the course of human history. From religious leaders and philosophers to scientists, rulers, and innovators, the list encompasses a diverse range of figures whose contributions have left an indelible mark on civilization.
Through Hart’s meticulous analysis and ranking, readers gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted factors that contribute to influence and significance. Whether through military conquests, intellectual achievements, political reforms, or cultural innovations, each individual on the list has played a pivotal role in shaping the world as we know it today.
As we reflect on the lives and accomplishments of these remarkable individuals, we are reminded of the enduring power of human ingenuity, resilience, and creativity. Their legacies continue to inspire and influence future generations, serving as a testament to the profound impact that a single individual can have on the course of history.
“The 100” serves not only as a tribute to the remarkable achievements of these influential figures but also as a thought-provoking exploration of the forces and ideas that have shaped our collective human experience. Through studying their lives and contributions, we gain insight into the complex tapestry of human history and the enduring quest for progress, knowledge, and understanding.