historical figures; Unknown figures who changed the world

When we talk about those who have changed the course of history, usually the names of famous personalities, presidents, inventors or activists whose names are full of history books come to mind. But the interesting point here is that the world was changed many times by the hands of ordinary people; Those who made a simple decision or defended a small but deep belief only in a decisive moment. Most of them did not seek fame, nor did they intend to play a big role in the world. However, those small choices created currents that later turned into big and lasting changes. (Yahoo)

Gavrilo Princip was only 19 years old when he decided to change the course of the 20th century. After 1914 and the assassination of the Crown Prince of Austria by him, who was neither a general nor a politician, a chain of events began that eventually led to the First World War. Princip’s emotional but effective act did not only shake Europe; Rather, it changed the basis of the world order. This event marked the end of several empires and made possible the beginning of new countries.

Photographer: Unknown / WAMU

Claudette Colvin was only 15 years old when she refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in 1955. Because of this simple decision and in fact, disobeying the ruling laws of that time, he was arrested and then became one of the first to challenge the laws of racial segregation. Calvin’s courageous act paved the way for the Montgomery bus boycott and the civil rights movement, proving that even teenagers can make big changes.

Photographer: Unknown / African American Studies – University of Maryland

Stanislav Petrov, a former Soviet military officer, was on duty in 1983 when the early warning system mistakenly detected American missiles. Instead of following protocol and launching a retaliatory nuclear strike, Petrov trusted his instincts and reported the warning as a false alarm. It turned out that he was right, and Petrov’s calm decision-making most likely prevented a nuclear war from changing history, coolly and in the blink of an eye.

Photographer: unknown / wikimedia

“Oskar Schindler”, a German businessman who witnessed the suppression and widespread threat to human lives during the Second World War, used his factory as a cover to protect the workers and saved the lives of more than a thousand people from certain death. Schindler did not intend to become a hero from the beginning; But as the situation became more difficult, he risked his property, security and social position so that others could survive. Her story shows that even in the darkest of times, individual choice can make a real difference.

Photographer: Unknown / BBC History Magazine

“Harriet Tubman” (Harriet Tubman) was born in slavery; But he refused to stay there. After his escape and freedom, he repeatedly risked his life and returned to the American South to guide hundreds of slaves to freedom on the “Hidden Railroad”. His courage and determination did not only save people’s lives; It also weakened the foundations of the slavery system. Tubman is a clear example of individual courage that can initiate a great change. His name remains as one of the most important freedom fighters in history.

Photographer: unknown / wikimedia

A businessman named “Henry Dunant” in 1859 and after seeing the heartbreaking scenes of the “Solferino” battle in Italy, decided to help the war wounded regardless of nationality. This simple action changed his life path and led to the establishment of the Red Cross. Donnan’s work became the foundation of modern humanitarian relief. Donan’s legacy still saves lives in wars and disasters.

Photographer: Unknown / Britannica

“Malala Yousafzai” (Malala Yousafzai) was still a Pakistani student when the Taliban attacked her for defending girls’ right to education; But this incident did not stop him from demanding the right. After being rescued, young Malala made her voice more expressive and universal and became the “youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize”. From her personal experience, Malala built a bridge to global awareness of educational deprivation. Malala’s courageous efforts inspired millions to stand up for the right to education, and her story turned a personal tragedy into a global movement.

Photographer: unknown / yahoo

Lech Wałęsa, a simple shipyard electrician, became the leader of the Solidarity movement in Poland by leading strikes. This popular movement, which demanded workers’ rights and political reforms, quickly gained power and pushed back the communist system in Poland. His leadership not only changed Poland, but created a wave across Eastern Europe that eventually accelerated the fall of communism and proved that great movements don’t always start with politicians and that an ordinary worker can spark a great revolution.

Photographer: unknown / yahoo

“Alice Paul” (Alice Paul) was not a well-known figure in the beginning; But his relentless efforts to achieve women’s suffrage changed the fate of America. From organizing protests to leading hunger strikes, he tenaciously pushed the suffrage movement forward, ultimately leading to the passage of the 19th Amendment. Paul’s courage and perseverance today inspires human rights activists around the world and shows that ordinary people can stand up against overwhelming odds and change history.

Photographer: unknown / yahoo

“Maurice Hilleman” may not be a familiar name for many; But his work has saved millions of lives. This microbiologist changed the course of modern medicine by developing more than 40 vaccines, including measles, mumps and hepatitis vaccines. Without seeking fame, Hillman took action for global health in a practical and continuous manner. His achievements eradicated or controlled many fatal childhood diseases.

Photographer: Unknown / International Papillomavirus Society

Which of these people did you know? Among these silent heroes, who is the most inspiring figure for you and whose story influenced you the most? Please share your valuable opinion with Kajaro and its users.

Cover photo: Young portrait of Harriet Tubman; Photo source: wikimedia, photographer name: unknown