Kissinger
1923: Birth in Germany (Age: 0) Henry Kissinger was born as Heinz Alfred Kissinger on May 27, 1923, in Fürth, Germany. Growing up in a Jewish family, he experienced the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime, which profoundly impacted his early life and influenced his later perspectives on diplomacy and global affairs.
1938: Escape from Nazi Germany (Age: 15) In 1938, at the age of 15, Kissinger’s family fled Nazi Germany to seek refuge in the United States, escaping the escalating persecution of Jews. This harrowing experience shaped his outlook on international relations, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and international cooperation in preventing conflicts and promoting peace.
1943: Naturalized as a U.S. Citizen (Age: 20) In 1943, at the age of 20, Kissinger became a naturalized U.S. citizen, cementing his allegiance to his adopted country. This pivotal event allowed him to fully embrace the opportunities that America offered and set the stage for his future contributions to American politics and foreign policy.
1943-1946: Service in the U.S. Army during World War II (Age: 20-23) During World War II, Kissinger served in the U.S. Army’s military intelligence division, providing valuable contributions in strategic analysis and intelligence operations. This military service honed his understanding of global politics and laid the foundation for his later involvement in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
1950: Ph.D. from Harvard University (Age: 26) At the age of 26, in 1950, Kissinger earned his Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University. This academic achievement propelled him into a successful career as a scholar and intellectual in the field of international relations.
1961: Director of Harvard’s Defense Studies Program (Age: 38) In 1961, at the age of 38, Kissinger was appointed as the Director of Harvard University’s Defense Studies Program. In this capacity, he became a prominent figure in the academic world and a respected authority on defense and foreign policy matters.
1969: National Security Advisor to President Nixon (Age: 46) At age 46, Kissinger’s career took a momentous turn when he was appointed as the National Security Advisor to President Richard Nixon in 1969. This key role granted him significant influence in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Nixon administration and the ensuing period.
1973: Secret Diplomatic Trips to China and Soviet Union (Age: 50) In his early 50s, Kissinger embarked on secret diplomatic missions to China and the Soviet Union, fostering rapprochement between the United States and these major powers. These diplomatic efforts were instrumental in easing Cold War tensions and reshaping global geopolitics.
1973: Received the Nobel Peace Prize (Age: 50) At the age of 50, in 1973, Henry Kissinger was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his pivotal role in negotiating the Paris Peace Accords, which brought an end to the Vietnam War. The prestigious prize recognized his diplomatic accomplishments and contributions to international peace efforts.
1973-1977: Secretary of State under Presidents Nixon and Ford (Age: 50s) Serving as Secretary of State during his 50s, Kissinger was a central figure in U.S. foreign policy under Presidents Nixon and Ford. His expertise and strategic negotiations shaped American diplomacy during critical moments in international relations.
1994: Wrote the Book “Diplomacy” (Age: 71) In 1994, at the age of 71, Kissinger published the book “Diplomacy,” an influential work that delved into the art and practice of diplomacy. Drawing from his extensive experiences as a statesman, the book became a significant resource for scholars and policymakers in the field.
Ongoing: Continued Influence and Consultancy Work (Age: Ongoing) Throughout his later years and to the present, Kissinger has maintained an influential role in international affairs. He has continued to offer valuable insights and consultancy services to governments and organizations on complex diplomatic matters, leaving a lasting impact on the global stage.
Napoleon
1769: Birth in Corsica (Age: 0) Napoleon Bonaparte was born on August 15, 1769, in Ajaccio, Corsica, which was then a part of the French Republic. His humble beginnings on the island of Corsica would later prove to be a crucial influence on his rise to power and ambition to establish his legacy in the history of France and Europe.
1784: Attends Military School in France (Age: 15) At the age of 15, in 1784, Napoleon left Corsica to attend the prestigious École Militaire in Paris. This marked the beginning of his military education and provided him with the knowledge and training that would shape his illustrious military career.
1796: Commands the French Army in Italy (Age: 26) In 1796, at the age of 26, Napoleon achieved a significant military breakthrough when he was appointed as the commander of the French Army of Italy. It was in this campaign that he demonstrated his exceptional military tactics and leadership, gaining widespread recognition as a military genius.
1799: Coup d’état and Rise to Power (Age: 30) In November 1799, at the age of 30, Napoleon executed a successful coup d’état and established himself as the First Consul of France. This marked the beginning of his political ascendancy, effectively ending the French Revolution’s turbulent phase and solidifying his grip on power.
1804: Proclaimed Emperor of the French (Age: 35) On December 2, 1804, at the age of 35, Napoleon crowned himself Emperor of the French in a lavish ceremony at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. This act symbolized the consolidation of his authority, transforming France from a republic to an empire with him as its absolute ruler.
1805: Victory at Austerlitz (Age: 36) In 1805, at the age of 36, Napoleon achieved one of his most significant military victories at the Battle of Austerlitz. Often regarded as his greatest triumph, this decisive win over the combined forces of Austria and Russia solidified his dominance in Europe.
1807: Establishes the Continental System (Age: 38) At the age of 38, in 1807, Napoleon implemented the Continental System, an economic blockade aimed at isolating Britain and weakening its trade. While it had adverse effects on European economies, it also fueled resentment and resistance against French dominance.
1812: Ill-fated Russian Campaign (Age: 43) In 1812, at the age of 43, Napoleon launched the ill-fated invasion of Russia, leading the massive Grande Armée into the heart of the Russian winter. The catastrophic campaign resulted in a devastating defeat for the French forces and marked the beginning of Napoleon’s decline.
1814: Exile to Elba (Age: 45) In 1814, at the age of 45, following a series of military defeats and the forced abdication, Napoleon was exiled to the island of Elba in the Mediterranean. Although seemingly the end of his reign, his story was far from over.
1815: The Hundred Days and Battle of Waterloo (Age: 46) In 1815, at the age of 46, Napoleon famously escaped from Elba and returned to France for what history would remember as the “Hundred Days.” Despite initial victories, his reign was cut short by the decisive defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, ending his rule and marking the conclusion of the Napoleonic era.
1821: Death on Saint Helena (Age: 51) Napoleon Bonaparte died on May 5, 1821, at the age of 51, while in exile on the remote island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. His death marked the end of an era and left an indelible mark on the history of Europe and the world.
MacArthur
1880: Birth in Little Rock, Arkansas (Age: 0) Douglas MacArthur was born on January 26, 1880, in Little Rock, Arkansas, into a military family. His father, Arthur MacArthur Jr., was a decorated Civil War veteran and later a high-ranking army general, which undoubtedly influenced young Douglas’s future career path.
1903: Graduates from West Point (Age: 23) In 1903, at the age of 23, MacArthur graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He displayed exceptional leadership and academic skills during his time at the academy, foreshadowing his future as a prominent military leader.
1917-1918: World War I Service (Age: 37-38) During World War I, from 1917 to 1918, MacArthur served as the chief of staff for the 42nd (Rainbow) Division. His strategic and tactical abilities were recognized, and he rose to the rank of brigadier general, earning several awards and commendations for his service.
1930-1935: Military Advisor to the Philippines (Age: 50-55) From 1930 to 1935, MacArthur served as the military advisor to the government of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. He played a crucial role in modernizing the Philippine Army and establishing a strong defense force for the nation.
1935-1941: Commander of the US Army Forces in the Far East (Age: 55-61) Appointed as the commander of the US Army Forces in the Far East in 1935, MacArthur was tasked with overseeing the defense of American interests in the region. He focused on strengthening the military’s capabilities and preparing for potential conflicts.
1941: World War II - Defense of the Philippines (Age: 61) In December 1941, Japan attacked the Philippines, and MacArthur led the defense against the invasion. Despite his efforts, the overwhelming Japanese forces forced him to retreat to the island of Corregidor, where he famously vowed, “I shall return.”
1942: The Bataan Death March (Age: 62) In April 1942, at the age of 62, MacArthur was ordered to evacuate the Philippines. He left for Australia, leaving his men behind, which resulted in the infamous Bataan Death March, during which thousands of American and Filipino prisoners of war endured horrific conditions and brutality.
1944: Return to the Philippines (Age: 64) In October 1944, at the age of 64, MacArthur fulfilled his promise to return to the Philippines. Leading the Allied forces, he launched the successful amphibious invasion of Leyte, marking a crucial turning point in the Pacific Theater of World War II.
1945: Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers in Japan (Age: 65) After Japan’s surrender in 1945, MacArthur was appointed as the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers in Japan. He played a vital role in the post-war reconstruction of Japan, implementing democratic reforms and laying the foundation for its transformation into a modern nation.
1950-1951: Korean War - Commander of UN Forces (Age: 70-71) During the Korean War, MacArthur was appointed as the commander of the United Nations forces, leading the defense of South Korea against North Korean aggression. His bold and controversial strategies, including an invasion of North Korea, led to tensions with the US government and ultimately his removal from command.
1964: Farewell Address at West Point (Age: 84) In 1964, at the age of 84, MacArthur delivered his memorable farewell address to the cadets at West Point, ending his long and illustrious military career. In his speech, he famously proclaimed, “Duty, Honor, Country,” reflecting the principles that guided him throughout his life.
1964: Death in Washington, D.C. (Age: 84) Douglas MacArthur passed away on April 5, 1964, in Washington, D.C., at the age of 84. His death marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and controversial military figures in American history.
LKY
1923: Birth in Singapore (Age: 0) Lee Kuan Yew was born on September 16, 1923, in Singapore. He came from a privileged family with Chinese ancestry, and his father was a successful businessman, giving Lee a comfortable upbringing.
1954: Founding of the People’s Action Party (Age: 31) In 1954, at the age of 31, Lee Kuan Yew co-founded the People’s Action Party (PAP) with the aim of advocating for self-governance and independence from British colonial rule. The PAP quickly gained popularity and became a dominant political force in Singapore.
1959: Becomes Prime Minister (Age: 36) Following Singapore’s first general elections in 1959, Lee Kuan Yew became the country’s first Prime Minister. As the head of the newly self-governing state, he focused on improving the economy, education, and housing, laying the groundwork for Singapore’s future prosperity.
1963: Formation of Malaysia and Separation (Age: 40) In 1963, Singapore joined the newly formed Federation of Malaysia. However, due to political and ideological differences, Singapore was separated from Malaysia in 1965, making it an independent and sovereign nation. Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership was instrumental in steering Singapore through this challenging transition.
1965: Independence of Singapore (Age: 42) On August 9, 1965, Singapore officially gained independence from Malaysia. Lee Kuan Yew’s dedication to building a united and prosperous nation was evident during this period of uncertainty, and he worked tirelessly to shape Singapore’s destiny.
1967: Introduction of the “Speak Mandarin Campaign” (Age: 44) Recognizing the importance of language in fostering national unity, Lee Kuan Yew launched the “Speak Mandarin Campaign” in 1967 to promote the use of Mandarin Chinese among Singaporeans. The campaign aimed to bridge linguistic divides and create a common cultural identity.
1984: Re-elected as Prime Minister (Age: 61) In 1984, at the age of 61, Lee Kuan Yew was re-elected as Prime Minister. He continued to steer Singapore towards economic success and international recognition, implementing policies that attracted foreign investments and established Singapore as a global financial hub.
1990: Stepping Down as Prime Minister (Age: 67) After serving as Prime Minister for over three decades, Lee Kuan Yew stepped down from the position in 1990 but remained an influential figure in Singaporean politics. He assumed the role of Senior Minister and later became Minister Mentor, providing guidance to the government.
2004: Retirement from Cabinet (Age: 81) In 2004, at the age of 81, Lee Kuan Yew retired from the cabinet, marking the end of his active political career. Despite stepping away from formal governance, he continued to offer counsel and remained highly respected for his contributions to Singapore’s success.
2015: Passing Away in Singapore (Age: 91) On March 23, 2015, at the age of 91, Lee Kuan Yew passed away in Singapore. His death was mourned not only by Singaporeans but also by leaders and citizens worldwide, who recognized his exceptional leadership and transformative impact on Singapore’s development into a thriving nation.
HCM
1890: Birth in Nghe An, Vietnam (Age: 0) Ho Chi Minh, born as Nguyen Sinh Cung, came into the world on May 19, 1890, in the village of Kim Lien, Nghe An province, Vietnam. His birth laid the foundation for a life that would be dedicated to fighting for the independence and liberation of his country.
1911: Departure for France (Age: 21) In 1911, at the age of 21, Ho Chi Minh left Vietnam and embarked on a journey to France to pursue his studies. During his time in France, he was exposed to socialist and nationalist ideologies, which would later influence his political beliefs and actions.
1919: Participation in the Versailles Peace Conference (Age: 29) In 1919, at the age of 29, Ho Chi Minh took part in the Versailles Peace Conference, where he attempted to present a petition for the rights of the Vietnamese people to self-determination and independence from French colonial rule. Unfortunately, his appeals were disregarded by the conference participants.
1920: Co-founding the French Communist Party (Age: 30) At the age of 30, Ho Chi Minh became a founding member of the French Communist Party (FCP) in 1920. His involvement in communist movements would play a significant role in shaping his approach to Vietnam’s struggle for independence.
1925: Formation of the Revolutionary Youth League (Age: 35) Ho Chi Minh established the Revolutionary Youth League in 1925, aiming to mobilize young Vietnamese to join the fight against colonialism and imperialism. This organization laid the groundwork for the future Communist Party of Vietnam.
1941: Founding the Viet Minh (Age: 51) In 1941, at the age of 51, Ho Chi Minh founded the Viet Minh, also known as the League for the Independence of Vietnam. The Viet Minh became a united front that aimed to liberate Vietnam from both Japanese occupation during World War II and French colonial rule.
1945: Proclamation of Vietnamese Independence (Age: 55) On September 2, 1945, at the age of 55, Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in Hanoi, formally declaring Vietnam’s independence from French rule. He became the President of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and led the country’s efforts for independence and reunification.
1954: Victory at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu (Age: 64) In 1954, at the age of 64, the Viet Minh achieved a historic victory at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu against the French colonial forces. This victory led to the end of French rule in Vietnam and set the stage for the division of Vietnam at the 17th parallel.
1960: Formation of the National Liberation Front (Age: 70) At the age of 70, Ho Chi Minh played a pivotal role in the establishment of the National Liberation Front (NLF) in 1960. The NLF aimed to unite various revolutionary forces in South Vietnam to fight against the government and pave the way for reunification.
1969: Death in Hanoi, Vietnam (Age: 79) On September 2, 1969, at the age of 79, Ho Chi Minh passed away in Hanoi, Vietnam. Despite his death, his legacy continued to inspire the Vietnamese people’s resilience and determination to achieve reunification and ultimate victory in the Vietnam War, leading to the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1976. Ho Chi Minh remains one of the most revered figures in Vietnamese history, known affectionately as “Uncle Ho” by the people of Vietnam.
Mao
1893: Birth in Shaoshan, China (Age: 0) Mao Zedong was born on December 26, 1893, in the village of Shaoshan, Hunan province, China. His birth marked the beginning of a life that would transform him into one of the most influential and controversial figures in modern Chinese history.
1911: Joining the Xinhai Revolution (Age: 18) At the age of 18, in 1911, Mao Zedong participated in the Xinhai Revolution, a pivotal event that led to the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China. This experience ignited Mao’s interest in revolutionary activities and set him on a path of political activism.
1921: Co-founding the Chinese Communist Party (Age: 28) In 1921, at the age of 28, Mao Zedong co-founded the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in Shanghai. He became one of the CCP’s founding members and would later emerge as its paramount leader.
1934: Leading the Long March (Age: 41) In 1934, at the age of 41, Mao Zedong embarked on the historic Long March, a grueling year-long journey covering thousands of miles. During this arduous trek, Mao and his Red Army forces evaded Nationalist forces, regrouped in northern China, and solidified his position as the leader of the CCP.
1949: Founding of the People’s Republic of China (Age: 56) On October 1, 1949, at the age of 56, Mao Zedong proclaimed the establishment of the People’s Republic of China after the Communists’ victory in the Chinese Civil War. He became the Chairman of the Central People’s Government and later the Chairman of the Communist Party of China.
1958: Launch of the Great Leap Forward (Age: 65) In 1958, at the age of 65, Mao Zedong initiated the Great Leap Forward, a radical economic and social campaign aimed at rapidly transforming China into a socialist society. However, the campaign’s ambitious targets and policies led to widespread famine and economic setbacks, resulting in significant human suffering.
1966: Commencement of the Cultural Revolution (Age: 73) At the age of 73, in 1966, Mao Zedong launched the Cultural Revolution, a political movement aimed at purging perceived “counter-revolutionary” elements within the party and society. The Cultural Revolution unleashed widespread violence and chaos, with the Red Guards targeting intellectuals, officials, and traditional cultural artifacts.
1976: Death in Beijing, China (Age: 82) On September 9, 1976, at the age of 82, Mao Zedong passed away in Beijing, China. His death marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new phase in Chinese history. Despite his controversial legacy, Mao’s impact on China and the world cannot be denied, and his ideologies and policies continue to shape the nation to this day.
Alexander the Great
356 BCE: Birth in Pella, Ancient Macedonia (Age: 0) Alexander the Great was born in July 356 BCE in Pella, the capital of Ancient Macedonia. He was the son of King Philip II of Macedon and Queen Olympia.
336 BCE: Ascends to the Throne (Age: 20) In 336 BCE, at the age of 20, Alexander became the king of Macedon after the assassination of his father, King Philip II. He inherited a powerful and well-trained military, as well as ambitious plans his father had for expanding Macedonian influence in Greece and beyond.
334-323 BCE: Conquest of the Persian Empire (Age: 22-33) Starting in 334 BCE at the age of 22, Alexander embarked on a series of military campaigns that would eventually lead to the conquest of the mighty Persian Empire. He decisively defeated Persian forces in key battles, such as the Battle of Issus and the Battle of Gaugamela, bringing down the Persian King Darius III and establishing himself as the ruler of a vast empire stretching from Greece to India.
326 BCE: Crossing the Hydaspes River (Age: 30) In 326 BCE, at the age of 30, Alexander faced one of his most challenging military engagements when he crossed the Hydaspes River in India to confront King Porus and his formidable army. Despite facing a larger and heavily armed opponent, Alexander emerged victorious, demonstrating his tactical brilliance and bravery on the battlefield.
323 BCE: Death in Babylon (Age: 32) At the young age of 32, in 323 BCE, Alexander the Great’s extraordinary life came to an abrupt end in Babylon. The exact cause of his death remains a mystery, with theories ranging from illness to poisoning. His untimely demise led to a power struggle among his generals, resulting in the division of his empire into multiple Hellenistic kingdoms.
Legacy: Hellenistic Influence and Historical Impact Alexander’s legacy extended far beyond his short-lived empire. His conquests and policies spread Greek culture, known as Hellenism, throughout the conquered lands, leaving a lasting impact on the regions he had ruled. This cultural diffusion played a crucial role in shaping the Hellenistic world and influencing the development of subsequent civilizations. Additionally, his military strategies and tactics inspired countless leaders and generals throughout history, making Alexander the Great one of the most legendary and influential figures of antiquity.
Julius Caesar
100 BCE: Birth in Rome (Age: 0) Gaius Julius Caesar was born on July 12 or 13, 100 BCE, into a noble family in Rome. His family was not particularly prominent, but his aunt Julia was married to Gaius Marius, a celebrated military general and politician, which would prove advantageous for Caesar’s future career.
84 BCE: Becomes Flamen Dialis (Age: 16) At the age of 16, Caesar was appointed as the Flamen Dialis, a prestigious and high-ranking religious position responsible for the cult of Jupiter. However, his uncle Marius’ political enemies, led by Lucius Cornelius Sulla, declared him an enemy of the state during Sulla’s dictatorship, putting Caesar’s life in danger. He managed to escape Rome, avoiding execution.
78 BCE: Studies in Rhodes (Age: 22) Fleeing from Sulla’s persecution, Caesar traveled to Rhodes to study rhetoric and oratory, an essential skill for a Roman politician. During his time there, he honed his public speaking abilities, which would later serve him well in his political career.
69 BCE: Elected Military Tribune (Age: 31) After Sulla’s death, Caesar returned to Rome and began his political ascent. In 69 BCE, he was elected as a military tribune, a significant step in his political career. This position provided him with valuable military experience and exposure to the intricacies of Roman politics.
63 BCE: Elected Pontifex Maximus (Age: 37) By 63 BCE, Caesar had established himself as a prominent politician in Rome. He was elected as the Pontifex Maximus, the high priest of the Roman state religion. This position not only solidified his standing within the Roman elite but also gave him considerable influence over religious matters in the Republic.
59 BCE: First Triumvirate Forms (Age: 41) In 59 BCE, Caesar, along with Pompey and Crassus, formed the First Triumvirate, a powerful political alliance aimed at advancing their individual interests. This alliance enabled Caesar to secure the consulship in 59 BCE, granting him greater political power.
58-50 BCE: Conquest of Gaul (Age: 42-50) From 58 to 50 BCE, Caesar conducted one of his most remarkable military campaigns: the conquest of Gaul (modern-day France). Through a series of brilliant military victories, he expanded Rome’s territory, solidifying his reputation as a military genius and earning the loyalty of his legions.
49 BCE: Crossing the Rubicon (Age: 51) In 49 BCE, tensions between Caesar and the Roman Senate escalated, leading to a confrontation at the Rubicon River. Caesar famously crossed the Rubicon with his army, an act of insurrection against the Senate and a declaration of civil war. This event marked the beginning of a prolonged conflict between Caesar’s forces and the senatorial faction led by Pompey.
44 BCE: Assassination (Age: 56) On March 15, 44 BCE, Julius Caesar was assassinated in the Senate chamber by a group of conspirators led by Brutus and Cassius. Their actions were driven by fears that Caesar aimed to establish a monarchy, thus threatening the Roman Republic’s traditional republican system.
Legacy: Transformation of Rome Despite his untimely death, Julius Caesar’s influence on Roman history and Western civilization was profound. His military conquests, political reforms, and ambitious projects left an indelible mark on the Roman Empire. His life and the subsequent power struggles after his assassination led to the eventual rise of Caesar Augustus, the first Roman Emperor, and the end of the Roman Republic, ushering in the era of the Roman Empire.
Teddy Roosevelt
1858: Birth in New York City (Age: 0) Theodore Roosevelt was born on October 27, 1858, in New York City to a wealthy family. His father was a prominent philanthropist and businessman, and his mother came from a prestigious Southern family. Growing up, young Teddy suffered from various health issues, including asthma, but he cultivated a strong determination to overcome physical challenges.
1881: Elected to New York State Assembly (Age: 23) In 1881, at the age of 23, Roosevelt was elected to the New York State Assembly. During his time in the assembly, he focused on reforming corrupt political practices, earning a reputation as a progressive and energetic young politician.
1884: Tragic Loss and Life on the Ranch (Age: 26) In 1884, Teddy Roosevelt faced a series of personal tragedies when both his wife, Alice, and his mother died on the same day. Grief-stricken, he sought solace in the vast landscapes of the American West and purchased a ranch in the Dakota Territory. He embraced the rugged lifestyle, becoming a cowboy and gaining firsthand experience of the frontier.
1895: Appointed President of New York City Police Board (Age: 37) By 1895, Roosevelt had gained a reputation for his fearlessness and integrity. As a result, he was appointed as the President of the New York City Police Board. In this role, he implemented significant reforms, combatting corruption and improving the efficiency and reputation of the city’s police force.
1897: Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Age: 39) In 1897, Roosevelt was appointed as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President William McKinley. In this position, he worked to modernize and strengthen the U.S. Navy, advocating for the construction of new battleships and promoting the idea of American naval power on the world stage.
1898: Leadership in the Spanish-American War (Age: 40) When the Spanish-American War erupted in 1898, Roosevelt resigned from his naval post and organized the First United States Volunteer Cavalry, famously known as the “Rough Riders.” His leadership and courage during the Battle of San Juan Hill in Cuba earned him national fame and admiration.
1901: Becomes President of the United States (Age: 42) In 1901, following President McKinley’s assassination, Theodore Roosevelt became the 26th President of the United States. His presidency was marked by progressive policies, trust-busting efforts to regulate big corporations, conservation of natural resources, and efforts to improve public health and safety.
1903: Panama Canal Treaty (Age: 45) Under Roosevelt’s leadership, the United States negotiated a treaty with Colombia to secure the rights to construct the Panama Canal. When Colombia rejected the terms, Roosevelt supported Panama’s independence from Colombia, and the newly formed nation granted the U.S. control of the canal zone.
1906: Nobel Peace Prize (Age: 48) In 1906, Roosevelt received the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in mediating the end of the Russo-Japanese War. His efforts helped resolve the conflict and contributed to peace in the region.
1909: Leaves Office, Begins African Safari (Age: 51) After serving two terms as President, Roosevelt left office in 1909. Seeking adventure, he embarked on an extensive African safari, exploring the continent’s wildlife and landscapes. His journey became a legendary and well-documented expedition.
1914: Progressive Party Presidential Candidate (Age: 56) In 1912, Roosevelt made an unsuccessful bid to return to the presidency as the Progressive Party’s candidate. Though he did not win the election, his progressive ideas and advocacy for social and economic reforms continued to influence American politics.
1919: Death (Age: 60) Theodore Roosevelt passed away on January 6, 1919, at the age of 60. His death was a great loss for the nation and marked the end of an era characterized by his larger-than-life personality, dynamic leadership, and enduring legacy as one of America’s most influential and beloved presidents.
FDR
1882: Birth in Hyde Park, New York (Age: 0) Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) was born on January 30, 1882, in Hyde Park, New York. He came from a wealthy and influential family, and his early life was marked by privilege and education.
1905: Marriage to Eleanor Roosevelt (Age: 23) In 1905, at the age of 23, FDR married his distant cousin, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt. Their marriage would prove to be a powerful and enduring partnership, both personally and politically. Eleanor Roosevelt would later become a prominent First Lady and a strong advocate for social reform.
1910: Elected to the New York State Senate (Age: 28) In 1910, at the age of 28, FDR entered politics and was elected to the New York State Senate. During his time in the state legislature, he aligned himself with progressive Democrats and advocated for labor reform, regulation of utilities, and conservation efforts.
1913: Appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Age: 31) In 1913, President Woodrow Wilson appointed FDR as Assistant Secretary of the Navy. In this role, he supported the expansion of the Navy and played a key role in preparing the country for potential involvement in World War I.
1921: Contracting Polio (Age: 39) In 1921, at the age of 39, FDR’s life took a dramatic turn when he contracted polio, an illness that left him permanently paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the challenges, Roosevelt demonstrated immense resilience and determination in overcoming his disability.
1928: Elected Governor of New York (Age: 46) In 1928, FDR was elected as the Governor of New York. During his tenure, he continued to champion progressive policies, such as labor reform and social welfare programs, earning him popularity and acclaim.
1932: Elected President of the United States (Age: 50) In 1932, at the age of 50, Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected as the 32nd President of the United States, defeating incumbent President Herbert Hoover. Facing the Great Depression, FDR implemented the New Deal, a series of ambitious economic and social programs aimed at addressing the nation’s severe economic crisis.
1941: Pearl Harbor and Entry into World War II (Age: 59) On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, leading the United States to enter World War II. FDR’s leadership during the war was resolute and inspiring, and he played a crucial role in mobilizing the country’s resources and rallying the American people.
1945: Death (Age: 63) On April 12, 1945, at the age of 63, FDR passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage while still in office. His death marked the end of an era and left a profound impact on the nation. Roosevelt’s legacy as a transformative leader, who guided the United States through the Great Depression and World War II, endures to this day.
Zhou Enlai
1898 - Birth and Early Life (Age 0): Zhou Enlai was born on March 5, 1898, in Huai’an, Jiangsu province, China. He grew up in a scholarly family and received a traditional Confucian education during his early years.
1917 - Studying in Japan (Age 19): At the age of 19, Zhou Enlai traveled to Japan to study at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts. While in Japan, he became exposed to various political ideologies, which later influenced his revolutionary thinking.
1920 - Involvement in the May Fourth Movement (Age 22): In the early 1920s, Zhou Enlai returned to China and actively participated in the May Fourth Movement, a significant cultural and intellectual movement that advocated for modernization and political reform.
1921 - Co-founding the Chinese Communist Party (Age 23): In July 1921, at the age of 23, Zhou Enlai played a crucial role in the founding of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) during the First National Congress held in Shanghai.
1934 - The Long March (Age 36): In 1934, at the age of 36, Zhou Enlai participated in the arduous Long March, a strategic military retreat undertaken by the Red Army to evade the Nationalist forces. During this grueling journey, he demonstrated his leadership skills and commitment to the Communist cause.
1949 - Founding of the People’s Republic of China (Age 51): On October 1, 1949, at the age of 51, Zhou Enlai stood alongside Chairman Mao Zedong at Tiananmen Square during the proclamation ceremony of the People’s Republic of China. He became the first Premier of the newly established nation.
1954 - Geneva Conference (Age 56): Around the age of 56, Zhou Enlai played a pivotal role in the Geneva Conference on the Korean War and Indochina. His diplomatic skills and mediation efforts helped in finding a resolution to the conflict.
1966 - Cultural Revolution (Age 68): In 1966, at the age of 68, Zhou Enlai faced the challenges of the Cultural Revolution launched by Mao Zedong. Despite facing criticism, he worked to mitigate the impact of the upheaval and protect intellectuals and cultural relics.
1971 - Visit to the United States (Age 73): At the age of 73, Zhou Enlai embarked on a historic visit to the United States in 1971, becoming the first Premier of China to visit the U.S. His visit paved the way for the normalization of China-U.S. relations.
1976 - Death and Legacy (Age 77): Zhou Enlai passed away on January 8, 1976, at the age of 77, after battling cancer. His death marked the loss of a beloved and respected leader known for his moderation, pragmatism, and dedication to the well-being of the Chinese people.