Adolf Hitler
Chancellor of Germany (1933-1945)
Brief History of Leadership
Hitler's Demonstration of Leadership
Hitler showed leadership by governing Germany to rapid economic recovery through the first 6 years of his reign. He lead Germany out of a depression and into great success both economically and socially. Hitler’s ability to connect with the people of Germany, his economic prowess and extreme conviction made him a great leader. Hitler’s approach to leadership can be connected to Nelson Mandela’s lessons of leadership in many ways. The 3 main lessons of leadership used by Hitler are: Appearances matter – and remember to smile, courage is not the absence of fear – it’s inspiring others to move beyond it, and keep your friends close - and your enemies even closer.
1. “Appearances matter – and remember to smile.” -Nelson Mandela.
A leadership strategy that was extremely successful for Hitler was the way he dressed himself when appearing in public. Hitler found that dressing in a military uniform allowed him to gain respect from citizens and be taken seriously. As a result, he was always see in a military uniform in public. Hitler was a decorated war hero in World War 1, receiving the highest German military award, the Iron Cross. He displayed these awards on his uniform during any public appearance, allowing him to show the German people how committed he was to his country, and the numerous achievements he had done in the past. Wearing the uniform gave Hitler an aura of power and wisdom, and also helped increase patriotism within Germany. Overall Hitler used Mandela’s leadership lesson to the fullest, as his appearance in public greatly impacted his popularity and helped him improve Germany’s patriotism.
2. “Courage is not the absence of fear – it’s inspiring others to move beyond it” – Nelson Mandela.
Hitler became a popular and successful leader by the way he was able to inspire any group of people. Hitler was renowned for his speaking ability, and was a notably brilliant orator. A major part of his campaign involved touring Germany and giving speeches to large crowds of people in multiple cities. Germany was in complete chaos at the time due to the outcome of World War 1, and Hitler’s speeches inspired thousands to think positively and work hard to come out of the hardships. This made Hitler a great leader, as his speeches helped improve Germany's economy, and greatly increased patriotism within the country.
3. "Keep your friends close - and your rivals even closer" -Nelson Mandela.
Works Cited
- Cassels, Zack. Biography. N.p., June 2012. Web. 26 Apr. 2015. <http://www.biography.com/people/adolf-hitler-9340144>.
- Rees, Laurence. BBC History. N.p., 30 Mar. 2011. Web. 26 Apr. 2015. <http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/hitler_russia_invasion_01.shtml>.