Virginia B.
When I think of a leader, I picture one who has a strong vision, is committed to their cause, and is steadfast even in the face of adversity. Of all the past presidents of the United States, I respect our 40th President, Ronald Reagan, the most. I respect him so deeply because of his vision, leadership, and is ability to connect with the citizens of our country.
First and foremost, I find that President Reagan’s enduring commitment to freedom and democracy was exemplary. He diligently believed in the morals of limited government and individual liberty, policies that were aimed at unlocking the potential of the American people. Additionally, I find that his belief in the power of free markets and entrepreneurship driving economic growth was not only inspiring but life-changing. As a business student, I wish I had been alive during his presidency to witness all that he did for the economy. For example, the low inflation rate, high employment rate, and rising incomes for many Americans all occurred while our country was under his leadership.
Equally as impressive were President Reagan’s foreign police achievements. He was firm in his stance against cruel and oppressive government as he led the charge to end the Cold War in 1988, ultimately helping to collapse the Soviet Union as well. His consistency in confronting the Soviet threat in addition to his commitment to “peace through strength,” aided in welcoming a new age of freedom and stability into the world.
Millions of Americans admired Reagan because of his optimistic and charming demeanor. He had an innate ability to communicate with such clarity and confidence, vocalizing a vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill,” a line originally said by John Winthrop that was places as the center of President Reagan’s political career. His famous speeches, such as his inaugural address and his “Tear Down This Wall” remarks at the Brandenburg Gate, continue to resonate with my audiences today
Another aspect of Ronald Reagan that I found truly set him apart as a remarkable leader would be his integrity and resilience in the face of adversity. He remained steadfast in his commitment to serving our country despite facing many setbacks during his presidency, including the Iran-Contra scandal and an assassination attempt. Additionally, I marvel at his rare sense of humor. After the assassination attempt, he went in for surgery and reportedly remarked, “I hope you all are Republicans.” In another incident, he was giving a public speech when a balloon popped, and without missing a beat he utters, “Missed me.”
To conclude, President Ronald Reagan’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate with me on a deep level. I will say that I did not agree with many of his policies, however, I full-heartedly believe that you do not need to agree with someone about everything to respect them as a leader. I will add that President Reagan’s vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill” seems to have lost its luster in the current climate, but I am hoping that with the upcoming election, we will once again gain a President who has a strong vision and the leadership that will restore America as a beacon of light to the world.
When I think of a leader, I picture one who has a strong vision, is committed to their cause, and is steadfast even in the face of adversity. Of all the past presidents of the United States, I respect our 40th President, Ronald Reagan, the most. I respect him so deeply because of his vision, leadership, and is ability to connect with the citizens of our country.
First and foremost, I find that President Reagan’s enduring commitment to freedom and democracy was exemplary. He diligently believed in the morals of limited government and individual liberty, policies that were aimed at unlocking the potential of the American people. Additionally, I find that his belief in the power of free markets and entrepreneurship driving economic growth was not only inspiring but life-changing. As a business student, I wish I had been alive during his presidency to witness all that he did for the economy. For example, the low inflation rate, high employment rate, and rising incomes for many Americans all occurred while our country was under his leadership.
Equally as impressive were President Reagan’s foreign police achievements. He was firm in his stance against cruel and oppressive government as he led the charge to end the Cold War in 1988, ultimately helping to collapse the Soviet Union as well. His consistency in confronting the Soviet threat in addition to his commitment to “peace through strength,” aided in welcoming a new age of freedom and stability into the world.
Millions of Americans admired Reagan because of his optimistic and charming demeanor. He had an innate ability to communicate with such clarity and confidence, vocalizing a vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill,” a line originally said by John Winthrop that was places as the center of President Reagan’s political career. His famous speeches, such as his inaugural address and his “Tear Down This Wall” remarks at the Brandenburg Gate, continue to resonate with my audiences today
Another aspect of Ronald Reagan that I found truly set him apart as a remarkable leader would be his integrity and resilience in the face of adversity. He remained steadfast in his commitment to serving our country despite facing many setbacks during his presidency, including the Iran-Contra scandal and an assassination attempt. Additionally, I marvel at his rare sense of humor. After the assassination attempt, he went in for surgery and reportedly remarked, “I hope you all are Republicans.” In another incident, he was giving a public speech when a balloon popped, and without missing a beat he utters, “Missed me.”
To conclude, President Ronald Reagan’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate with me on a deep level. I will say that I did not agree with many of his policies, however, I full-heartedly believe that you do not need to agree with someone about everything to respect them as a leader. I will add that President Reagan’s vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill” seems to have lost its luster in the current climate, but I am hoping that with the upcoming election, we will once again gain a President who has a strong vision and the leadership that will restore America as a beacon of light to the world.
Griffin R.
George Washington, without a doubt, has my most respect of all US presidents. It is not simply because he was our first president, or “Father of our Country”, but due to his complete and unprecedented role in leading our fight for freedom, securing that freedom and developing our current form of government, then leading our new nation in a role never before seen in the world.
As commander of all Patriot forces during the Revolutionary War, his bravery, leadership, commitment and resolve led to victory against near-insurmountable odds. Leading untrained, ill-equipped local militias against what was, at the time, the world’s greatest army, he was able to overcome one hardship after the other, never losing faith over six long years of war. This leadership and fortitude culminated with the victory at Yorktown in 1781, effectively ending hostilities and guaranteeing the existence of our new nation.
Although having already contributed enormously, Washington recognized his duty to solidify our new nation, government and ideals. Upon nomination and election, he accepted the role as the first President of the United States. As President, he knew his every action would set a precedent, and he was determined to serve according to his principles. Refuting the ideas of monarchism, he avoided numerous attempts to expand the power of the central government. Additionally, he established Departments of the Executive Branch (the Cabinet), the National Bank, and functional economy (among many things), all while managing the fractured interests of the states. Finally (although this unfortunately did not set a precedent), he was the first and only president to be non-partisan and was vehemently opposed to political parties. As his final act, Washington stepped down after two terms, and ensured a peaceful transfer of power.
After leaving the presidency, Washington quietly retired to his home in Mount Vernon, where he died only two years later. He left behind a legacy that is easily identified with the moniker, “Father of the Country”. His profound impact is still felt today in our traditions, spirit, and codified in our enduring founding documents.
George Washington, without a doubt, has my most respect of all US presidents. It is not simply because he was our first president, or “Father of our Country”, but due to his complete and unprecedented role in leading our fight for freedom, securing that freedom and developing our current form of government, then leading our new nation in a role never before seen in the world.
As commander of all Patriot forces during the Revolutionary War, his bravery, leadership, commitment and resolve led to victory against near-insurmountable odds. Leading untrained, ill-equipped local militias against what was, at the time, the world’s greatest army, he was able to overcome one hardship after the other, never losing faith over six long years of war. This leadership and fortitude culminated with the victory at Yorktown in 1781, effectively ending hostilities and guaranteeing the existence of our new nation.
Although having already contributed enormously, Washington recognized his duty to solidify our new nation, government and ideals. Upon nomination and election, he accepted the role as the first President of the United States. As President, he knew his every action would set a precedent, and he was determined to serve according to his principles. Refuting the ideas of monarchism, he avoided numerous attempts to expand the power of the central government. Additionally, he established Departments of the Executive Branch (the Cabinet), the National Bank, and functional economy (among many things), all while managing the fractured interests of the states. Finally (although this unfortunately did not set a precedent), he was the first and only president to be non-partisan and was vehemently opposed to political parties. As his final act, Washington stepped down after two terms, and ensured a peaceful transfer of power.
After leaving the presidency, Washington quietly retired to his home in Mount Vernon, where he died only two years later. He left behind a legacy that is easily identified with the moniker, “Father of the Country”. His profound impact is still felt today in our traditions, spirit, and codified in our enduring founding documents.
Landen D.
There have been so many crucial and influential presidents throughout the long history of the United States. Presidents that have guided us through the beginnings and our founding, navigated through brutal wars, withstood intense standoffs, and created long lasting alliances. It is really hard to define a single president that I respect more than any of the other brilliant leaders we’ve had, but if I have to choose one, I would probably say that I respect Abraham Lincoln the most.
Abraham Lincoln obviously served a very long time ago, with very different circumstances than we have today so it’s hard to put what he did for this country in perspective. I believe Lincoln’s standup attitude and commitment to his principles and values are what make him standout. In a time where slavery was the norm, he was willing to make a stand against it and preach equality. Despite facing immense challenges, and one of the most significant events in the history of the US, the Civil Was, he was able to guide the nation through one of its most clamorous periods ever. Lincoln had a commitment to justice, equality, and the fundamental principles of democracy that we base our constitution on. I also greatly admire his ability to address an entire country with clashing ideologies and unite a deeply divided nation. His speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address are widely considered two of the most profound in all of American History.
In my time serving in leadership roles in college, I know how daunting it can be to stand up in front of even just a room full of people and address a touchy subject. I can’t imagine how much courage it would take to address the entire country split in two out of outright distaste. He was able to successfully project his vision of a more equitable society and lay the groundwork for future generations to live and thrive in a more perfect union. Overall, Abraham Lincoln’s contributions to America’s success, as well as his everlasting commitment to freedom are second to none. His accomplishments still earn him widespread respect and admiration from all. For these reasons, I respect Abraham Lincoln the most of all Presidents.
There have been so many crucial and influential presidents throughout the long history of the United States. Presidents that have guided us through the beginnings and our founding, navigated through brutal wars, withstood intense standoffs, and created long lasting alliances. It is really hard to define a single president that I respect more than any of the other brilliant leaders we’ve had, but if I have to choose one, I would probably say that I respect Abraham Lincoln the most.
Abraham Lincoln obviously served a very long time ago, with very different circumstances than we have today so it’s hard to put what he did for this country in perspective. I believe Lincoln’s standup attitude and commitment to his principles and values are what make him standout. In a time where slavery was the norm, he was willing to make a stand against it and preach equality. Despite facing immense challenges, and one of the most significant events in the history of the US, the Civil Was, he was able to guide the nation through one of its most clamorous periods ever. Lincoln had a commitment to justice, equality, and the fundamental principles of democracy that we base our constitution on. I also greatly admire his ability to address an entire country with clashing ideologies and unite a deeply divided nation. His speeches, including the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address are widely considered two of the most profound in all of American History.
In my time serving in leadership roles in college, I know how daunting it can be to stand up in front of even just a room full of people and address a touchy subject. I can’t imagine how much courage it would take to address the entire country split in two out of outright distaste. He was able to successfully project his vision of a more equitable society and lay the groundwork for future generations to live and thrive in a more perfect union. Overall, Abraham Lincoln’s contributions to America’s success, as well as his everlasting commitment to freedom are second to none. His accomplishments still earn him widespread respect and admiration from all. For these reasons, I respect Abraham Lincoln the most of all Presidents.
