Top 10 Greatest Men of All Time

As we look back through history, we find men who have done amazing things. These are people who have made big changes, inspired others, and become famous for their work. From top-notch scientists and great leaders to amazing artists and strong fighters, there are many men who have made a name for themselves. But who are the greatest men of all time?

The idea of "greatness" is hard to pin down. For some, it might mean making discoveries that change how we see the world. For others, it could mean standing up for what's right or leading a country. Some might think greatness is about making beautiful art or just living a good, kind life.

Making a list of the greatest men of all time is a tough job, but it's also incredibly interesting. It's like taking a trip through history to meet amazing people who have made a lasting impact. It's a way to celebrate what people can do and the strong spirit that has helped shape the world we live in today.
The Top Ten
Muhammad Known as the Prophet in Islam, Muhammad was born in Mecca around 570 CE and is revered for receiving revelations from the Islamic God, Allah. These revelations were eventually compiled into the Quran, the holy book of Islam. His teachings formed the basis of Islamic jurisprudence, social systems, and ethics. Muhammad's impact on history is immense, as he united the Arabian Peninsula under Islam and inspired a religious and cultural empire that has lasted over a millennium.

Well, he was ranked as number 1 in Michael H. Hart's book "The 100". He did many great things in his life. He always thought of others, loved, and died poor. He didn't seek revenge.

The sad thing is that people always try to ruin his greatness by saying lies about him. They try to destroy his view, but they always fail because people who read about his life will know why he deserved to be number 1 among all humans.

Read about his battles and the aftermath so you can know and understand that he didn't fight for glory or money. He didn't force anyone to convert to Islam. Know how he treated his enemies and the people around him.

No matter what Muslims do, we will never be able to thank him or be even 10% like him. Trust me, he is almost perfect. Never believe what ignorants say about him because there are hundreds of books that wrote about his true life. Try reading them because his life was hard yet happy.

May God guide you to the right path.

Jesus Christ Central to the Christian faith, Jesus Christ is believed by Christians to be the Son of God and the savior of humanity. His teachings, as presented in the New Testament, have been the foundation for Christian theology and have significantly influenced Western philosophy and ethics. Crucified around 30 AD, Jesus' sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection are seen as the means by which individuals can attain eternal life, according to Christian beliefs. His teachings and actions have had an immeasurable impact on history and continue to guide the lives of about one-third of the world’s population.

He is without comparison. Regardless of your personal beliefs, Jesus Christ has objectively influenced humanity in thought, devotion, and deed in terms of quality and quantity more than any mortal being history has and will ever know. One aspect of His greatness may be seen in the greatness of His influence.

Moreover, His extensive influence was not owing to things He wrote, built, invented, conquered, discovered, developed, or dreamed - His influence was most particularly the result of who He is and what He did on behalf of guilty and morally corrupt people. He is the only Substitute the world will ever know!

Abraham Lincoln The 16th President of the United States, Lincoln is lauded for leading the country through its Civil War, preserving the Union, and abolishing slavery. He issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, a critical step toward the eradication of slavery, and oversaw the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment. Lincoln's skill in oratory, most notably in speeches like the Gettysburg Address, also served to unify the nation and are studied to this day. His leadership qualities and dedication to principles of democracy and equality make him a towering figure in American history.

He believed in God and trusted in Him. That is something many people don't know. He freed our country from slavery and oppression.

This man understood the importance of ending the shame of our United States, our own Holocaust, the slavery of the black people.

Greatest president ever. Everywhere I look or type, "Who is the greatest president ever?" it says Abraham Lincoln. Boom!

Isaac Newton One of the most influential scientists in history, Newton made groundbreaking contributions to physics, mathematics, and astronomy. He formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, fundamentally changing our understanding of the natural world. His work, "Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy," is considered one of the most important scientific works ever written. Newton also made significant contributions to calculus, though some of this work was developed independently by Leibniz.

Not many people like to realize it now, but Newton was a devout Christian, writing books on the interpretation of the Bible and the last times. He is mostly known for finding the laws of inertia and gravity. Newton was one of the greatest scientific minds in history, if not the greatest.

He was "THE MAN" and the greatest of all who have ever lived on this planet, Earth. He was the "Son of God." He should be number one above all.

Hats off, Sir Isaac. We need you on Earth to move the world 500 years ahead.

Albert Einstein A physicist of unparalleled influence, Einstein revolutionized our understanding of the universe with his theories of relativity. Born in Germany, he won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for his explanation of the photoelectric effect. Einstein’s equation, E=mc^2, altered the field of physics, laying the groundwork for the development of atomic energy. His contributions to science, along with his advocacy for pacifism, civil rights, and academic freedom, make him one of the most impactful intellectuals of the 20th century.

He was a theoretical physicist. His many contributions to physics include the special and general theories of relativity, the founding of relativistic cosmology, and the first post-Newtonian expansion.

Intellectuals solve problems, geniuses prevent them. This was the level of his thinking. His contribution to physics is unmatched. He is my role model and should be for every physicist.

I think that Albert Einstein was great in the ways he thought about the world. He was vegetarian for most of his life, and from reading about him, he seems to be a kind person. And I love his quote that says that creativity is greater than knowledge. P.S. Why is Darwin not on this list?

Gautama Buddha Born Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha was an ancient Indian monk and the founder of Buddhism. After attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, he spent the remainder of his life teaching the path to enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering. His Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path continue to serve as the foundation of Buddhist philosophy. Buddhism, originating from his teachings, has become one of the world’s major religions, profoundly influencing a range of cultures across Asia.

He was truly the greatest person ever. He rejected all the concepts that cannot be proven scientifically or practically in real life. He never accepted anything simply because it had been delivered or preached by elders or popular figures. He rejected the existence of God or any supernatural power that would change human life.

He suggested that we can only bring changes to our lives by following the 'middle path' and attaining nirvana. The entire world would live peacefully by following him.

Martin Luther King, Jr. A leader in the American civil rights movement, King is best known for advancing civil rights through nonviolent civil disobedience, influenced by his Christian beliefs and Mahatma Gandhi. His leadership was crucial in the struggle against segregation and racial discrimination in the United States, particularly in the American South. His "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, is one of the most iconic speeches in American history. King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.

Bravely fought for the right for people to be treated equally regardless of race. His words would still be very useful today due to a broken justice system, affirmative action, and other racist policies.

Damn shame he isn't on this list. Might not be as good as Gandhi, but like him, he nearly drove racism from his country without even using firearms. To some of us, that is life-changing.

A man with vision who fought against wrong and cruelty in favor of equality. He always believed that the rights of men should be equal no matter what the color of your skin is.

Saint Paul An early Christian apostle, Saint Paul played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity outside of Jerusalem and into the Roman Empire. Formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, his dramatic conversion experience led him to become one of Christianity's most zealous missionaries. His epistles, or letters, form a significant portion of the New Testament and have been instrumental in Christian theology and ethics. Paul's teachings, particularly on topics like grace and the role of faith, have had a lasting impact on Christian doctrine.

I think St. Paul is greater than the Prophet Muhammad of Islam. I was an Islam lover until reading the Quran and Hadith. What I learned is Muhammad died as a self-praiser, murderer, rapist, curser, and forceful converter. St. Paul was a murderer until knowing Christ.

After that, his life changed, and he repented about his past always. He considered himself below all apostles and was a decent man.

He lived and died believing in God and trusting Jesus. He was truly a great and honorable man.

B. R. Ambedkar Born into a lower-caste family in British-ruled India, Ambedkar became a pivotal figure in the fight against social discrimination against untouchables (Dalits). He was the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, providing a legal framework that aimed to guarantee equal rights for all citizens. As a scholar and a jurist, his ideas had a profound impact on modern India, and his work for social justice has made him an enduring symbol of resistance against social inequality. His legacy also includes the promotion of Buddhism in India as a way to escape caste-based discrimination.

The man who brought out 75% of people from the darkness of inequality and untouchability. These people were not allowed to get education, wealth, worship, water, dress well, choose a life partner, or even be seen publicly. They were treated less than human, more like animals. They were forced to live in misery and endure forced labor for the past 10,000 years.

Ambedkar became a god to them. He wrote the constitution of India and provided special rights in the constitution for these people so that they could have every right necessary for every human being. Ambedkar ji gave them the right of equality.

Mahatma Gandhi A key figure in India's struggle for independence from British rule, Gandhi advocated for nonviolent resistance, which he called "satyagraha." His leadership galvanized millions, ultimately leading to India's independence in 1947. He was also instrumental in challenging the social norms surrounding caste and discrimination. Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence and civil disobedience has inspired numerous civil rights movements around the globe.

A man who was completely innocent offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act. He was no great warrior, scientist, king, prophet, or philosopher.

A man who changed the world by his sheer will. He knew the world is full of suffering, and grudge, hatred, and selfishness will only divide the world. He was hated by a few people in his own country and was killed by one of his countrymen. But by the next century, when people will be more interconnected economically, culturally, and intellectually, then people will realize he was a pioneer who won the hearts of his people and enemies. Salute to the greatest man ever.

The Newcomers

? Barry Gibb Barry Alan Crompton Gibb is a British singer, songwriter and record producer who rose to worldwide fame as a co-founder of the group Bee Gees, one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed groups in the history of popular music.
? Maurice Gibb
The Contenders
Barack Obama The 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama was the first African American to hold the office. His administration saw the passage of significant legislation, including the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as "Obamacare," aimed at extending healthcare coverage to millions of uninsured Americans. In foreign policy, he authorized the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009, and his election as President is hailed as a landmark moment in the quest for racial equality in the United States.

Although I don't agree with many of his policies, if any at all, I still think every president of the United States - from Washington to Trump and everyone in between - deserves at least every American's respect.

Karl Marx A 19th-century German philosopher, economist, and political theorist, Marx co-authored "The Communist Manifesto" and wrote "Das Kapital," texts that form the basis of modern communism and socialism. His ideas on class struggle, the exploitation of labor, and materialist conception of history have deeply influenced political thought and have led to significant social and political movements. Although contentious, Marx's critiques of capitalism have been studied extensively and have contributed to the fields of sociology, economics, and history. His work has had a profound impact on shaping political landscapes around the world.

One of the greatest thinkers ever to have lived, he discovered the laws of social development and described the mechanisms of functioning of capitalism.

Was a German philosopher, political economist, historian, political theorist, sociologist, and communist.

He had some good ideas, but due to the human condition, we are incapable of putting his ideas into action.

Confucius A Chinese philosopher and teacher, Confucius lived in the 6th century BCE and laid the foundation for much of Chinese philosophy and ethics. His teachings, collected in the Analects, focus on personal morality, the proper exercise of political power, and the importance of social harmony. Confucianism, the tradition founded upon his ideas, has been integral in shaping Chinese culture and has influenced other East Asian societies. His emphasis on family values, education, and moral integrity has left an indelible imprint on Chinese civilization.

The founder of modern Chinese civilization and author of the Analects is Confucius. Confucian ideals such as respect for elders, education, and loyalty to family continue to influence East Asia to this day.

Wow. Why is this great thinker so far down the list? Maybe he isn't popular enough, or perhaps people are ignorant, or maybe this site doesn't work in China.

William Shakespeare Widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in the English language, Shakespeare's work includes 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. His plays have been translated into every major language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. Themes within his works delve into the human psyche, exploring love, ambition, greed, and despair. His influence on English literature and drama is immeasurable, and his works continue to be studied and celebrated around the globe.

Shakespeare and the Bible are the most quoted sources in the Western Hemisphere. There is a reason for that.

Was an English poet and playwright, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language.

One of the greatest writers in the history of mankind, until now world literature is under his influence.

Nelson Mandela A symbol of resistance against apartheid, Mandela became South Africa's first Black president after spending 27 years in prison for his activism. His presidency marked the end of decades-long institutionalized racial discrimination and led to the establishment of a multiracial democracy in South Africa. Mandela's commitment to reconciliation between ethnic groups has made him an international emblem of dignity and forbearance. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for his role in peacefully ending apartheid and fostering racial unity.

The leader who led by example in his nation. The warrior who fought the good fight against white dominion and black dominion and brought peace to Africa and the world. The father of the rainbow nation.

He was not afraid to die for something he thought was right. I mean, come on, would any of you do that? He was so important and so inspiring!

A leader, an activist the world needed. He completely changed the conception of Africa in front of the entire world.

Moses A pivotal figure in the Abrahamic religions, Moses is traditionally considered the author of the Torah and the leader who liberated the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. According to biblical accounts, he received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, providing ethical and religious laws that have been foundational for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Exodus story, led by Moses, has been a symbol of liberation and hope for oppressed peoples throughout history.

According to Muslims, Moses (Musa) was the only human being who spoke directly to God. He talked to God as if both were best friends. Moses always strived for what was right and helped every person who needed him. He trusted God every time and never questioned why he had to fulfill any order commanded by God. Below is a very brief part of Moses mentioned in the Holy Qur'an. Wow! It's also mentioned in the chapter named after Mary:

Also mentioned in the Book (the story of) Moses: for he was specially chosen, and he was a messenger and a prophet.

And we called him from the right side of Mount (Sinai) and made him draw near to Us for mystic converse.

And, out of Our Mercy, We gave him his brother Aaron, also a prophet.

Lord Krishna A major deity in Hinduism, Lord Krishna is often considered the eighth incarnation of the god Vishnu. He is most famously known for his role in the Indian epic Mahabharata, where he delivers the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual and philosophical guide. In various traditions, Krishna is revered for his divine love with Radha and his childhood exploits. His teachings and mythology have not only shaped the course of Hindu philosophy but also contributed significantly to the cultural and spiritual landscape of the Indian subcontinent.

Muhammad is not the best in the world. Lord Krishna is the best in the world.

Lord Krishna was born to establish dharma. He worked a lot to give women a better position in society. He boycotted many ill practices that were followed. He could guide anyone to greatness with the right path.

He had immense power but never boasted about it or used it for his own privilege. Jai Shree Krishna.

He is everything: our good, bad, luck, misfortune, fortune. He gives us failures to make us stronger so that we learn lessons from them.

Socrates An ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates made lasting contributions to Western philosophy, particularly in the fields of ethics and epistemology. While he left no written records, his ideas were documented by his students, primarily Plato. He is best known for his Socratic method, a form of cooperative argumentative dialogue to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. His willingness to question conventional wisdom and challenge established norms led to his trial and execution, making him a martyr for free thought.

A philosopher of mental education, a sharp observer of the colder seasons at the time… and I overcame everything without looking back. There are even more wonderful details about this great man Socrates, a true genius who was always aware of what others would share as their warmer version of what they experienced.

A man for all to look up to and a leader of society. I only wish I may serve him and society to my finest and wish to take as much as possible from his teachings.

Great men like this must be heard and understood by our youth so that we may live in a society where all strive for the advancement of mankind.

Guru Nanak The founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak was born in what is now Pakistan. He is credited with formulating the fundamental beliefs of Sikhism, which emphasize the oneness of God, the importance of community service, and the equality of all humans. His hymns and teachings were compiled into the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Guru Nanak's influence extends beyond the Sikh community, affecting interfaith dialogue and contributing to a richer understanding of spirituality.

The birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji led to a revolution in society, human behavior, and spirituality. Not only was Guru Nanak a social reformer, but also a rebel within the realms of Naam. From beggars to kings, the message of equality, honest living, and sharing with others was emancipated.

Can you name any social construct of society that provides free food to every single person, regardless of caste, creed, or color? The concept of langar is simply revolutionary.

He is like a god to us. And putting him in 54th place… there is no place for any god in this list because God created us. Now we are comparing them to determine who is the best god or great person.

There is just one thing I have to mention: God is everything. Please stop including their names in this type of list.

Charles Darwin An English naturalist, Darwin is most famous for his groundbreaking work "On the Origin of Species," where he laid out the theory of evolution by natural selection. His scientific voyage on HMS Beagle provided the empirical evidence that supported his revolutionary theories. Darwin's ideas challenged the prevailing scientific and religious views of his time, sparking debates that continue today. His contributions to biology have laid the groundwork for the study of life sciences, making him one of the most transformative figures in scientific history.

One of the greatest scientists of the 20th century, he shined a light on the science of evolution and allowed us to expand on those discoveries to unearth the origins of every life on Earth.

Discovered and described the laws of evolution.

Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin (January 6, 1706 – April 17, 1790) was an American polymath who was active as a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher, and political philosopher. Among the leading intellectuals of his time, Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States,... read more

He is a very important Founding Father, and only George Washington did more than him to earn America's freedom.

One of the most underrated Founding Fathers of the United States.

I would love to hear what he and his contemporaries would have to say about the U.S. today.

Sachin Tendulkar Renowned as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Sachin Tendulkar's career spanned 24 years during which he broke numerous records. He is the only player to have scored one hundred international centuries and was the first to score a double century in a One Day International. His skill and sportsmanship have made him a revered figure not just in India but globally, influencing generations of aspiring cricketers. Tendulkar has also used his influence for charitable work, focusing on health and education for underprivileged children.

The real meaning of cricket. Truly, he is a God of Cricket. Love you, sir. Truly respect you from the bottom of my heart.

The best human being I have ever seen. Not only as a cricketer but also as a human being, he has done a lot of good for people. I am just 13 years old, but I know very well about his life. He is a man of many talents. I am M.K. Sachin, who posted this.

He is the god of cricket and so humble about it. Massive respect for this man.

Stephen Hawking A theoretical physicist and cosmologist, Hawking made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of black holes and the nature of the universe. His book "A Brief History of Time" broke records as a best-seller and brought complex scientific concepts to a general audience. Despite being diagnosed with ALS, a debilitating motor neuron disease, Hawking continued his scientific work and became an emblem of resilience and intellectual curiosity. His research in cosmology has had a lasting impact, and his life story has inspired millions around the globe.

Sir Stephen Hawking, suffering from ALS, wrote the mathematical equation that proves the existence of black holes.

I think he is the best man on the face of the Earth. I think he will win the Nobel Prize.

He's accomplished more than you. (probably)

John Lennon John Winston Ono Lennon, MBE (9 October 1940 - 8 December 1980) was an English singer and songwriter who rose to worldwide fame as a co-founder of the Beatles, the most commercially successful band in the history of popular music. He was assassinated by Mark David Chapman on December 8, 1980 at age... read more

John Lennon was a beautiful human being. His music forever changed the world. On top of that, there is undeniable proof he existed.

Paul McCartney Sir James Paul McCartney (born 18 June 1942) is an English singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and composer. With John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, he gained worldwide fame with the rock band the Beatles, one of the most popular and influential groups in the history of pop and rock... read more
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