Colin Powell: Military leader, Statesman

Colin Powell: Military leader, Statesman

The question of “What makes a leader great?” is without one solitary answer. Effective leaders in the corporate and political arenas are deserving of praise, but because of the nature of their work, military leaders are arguably more complex and intriguing.

“Military leadership qualities are formed in a progressive and sequential series of carefully planned training, educational, and experiential events—far more time-consuming and expensive than similar training in industry or government. Secondly, military leaders tend to hold high levels of responsibility and authority at low levels of our organizations. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, military leadership is based on a concept of duty, service, and self-sacrifice; we take an oath to that effect.”

There is no formula for leadership as great leaders have different leadership styles. When discussing military leaders and what makes them great examples of success, their personalities range from flamboyant and daring to reserved and cautious in battle. Colin Luther Powell was born in Harlem during the spring of 1937. Following a childhood and adolescence that was not particularly remarkable, Powell entered City College, in New York, where he found a niche in the Reserve Officers Training Corps. Then, after ascending to Cadet Colonel, the highest rank achievable in the corps, Powell graduated at the top of his class. His background as an underprivileged African-American makes him an intriguing military leader as he had to work hard, remain patient, and stare racism in the eyes on a daily basis.

The beginning of Powell’s career was quite commonplace as he was not set up for success like some great leaders. Upon graduation, Po...

... middle of paper ...

...ia taken care of countless times, from his days as the Cadet Colonel at City College, to the invasion of Iraq, there have been situations in which he has shined and handled with grace.

The pages of history books are littered with regular people that have become the unlikely hero or leader. His concepts of duty, service and self sacrifice seem to be what segregate him among the elite leaders. Colin Powell overcame many situations that would have been seen as a hindrance and ignored reason not to accomplish what he did; however it is a very important part the development that he underwent to reach the place he is now in life. As a product of all of his character traits, personal values, including his demeanor, sense of honor and comprehensive preparation, Colin Powell has developed from a leader, into what some might say is the greatest leader of the 20th century.