History repeats itself but each time it does, leadership determines the path it will take.
Years ago, I attended Leadership & Command training as part of a joint initiative between ATF and the The United States Army War College. Leadership is transcendent and whether the context is military, law enforcement, or world affairs, the fundamental principles are the same.
The training taught strategic leadership through an exhaustive study of the Battle of Gettysburg. As the historian described the various generals as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ leaders, I asked what made the difference. Surely it wasn’t technical competence alone. All the leaders on the battlefield understood basic tactics.
No, good leadership requires something more than technical acumen (though it does require some degree of that, too). Unfortunately, the secret ingredient doesn’t come in a bottle. It can’t be learned by reading a manual. It isn’t bestowed with a title.
But while the formula for true leadership may appear elusive, it isn’t hard to recognize when you see it. It is easiest to spot during a crisis. It shows up as resolute bravery in the face of what seems like insurmountable adversity. It is revealed through bold decisions and decisive action. When chaos threatens, true leadership is calm and confident. It inspires others to find strength within themselves.
I was reminded of the intersection of history and leadership by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s reassuring message and his offer of arms to the people of Ukraine. But I thought not of WWII, WWI, nor the Civil War. I was reminded of the American Revolution.
In Federalist No. 46, James Madison credited armed citizens – the Militia – as having been central to America’s successful fight for independence and vital to the preservation of our liberty. He distinguished Americans, who had “the advantage of being armed,” from Europeans, where “the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms.” Clearly, that does not include Ukraine.
It looks to me like Ukrainians are tough people with a strong leader. I hope their fight for freedom turns out the same way ours did.