Controversial historical figures May 4, 2025 · History often paints a complex picture of its key figures. Oct 10, 2018 · Statues are no strangers to controversies. Just because a historical figure may not be widely Jul 1, 2020 · Statues of Confederate leaders and other controversial figures, like slaveholders and colonists, have become a focal point for protesters. So, let’s take a look at 20 of the most devastating betrayals that rocked the world and rewrote history. Oct 29, 2025 · These leaders, through their controversial actions and policies, have left indelible marks on history, shaping the world in ways that continue to resonate today. History keeps different views of these individuals because they are either celebrated as heroic figures or condemned as villainous figures, while a few receive mixed opinions from different sectors of Jun 10, 2020 · The debate over controversial statues has reignited calls for Christopher Columbus memorials to come down. Join us as we explore the controversial sides of individuals often idolized in Western culture, revealing the complex and sometimes troubling legacies behind their celebrated personas. Jun 12, 2020 · Whether it be removing statues of controversial historical figures or renaming streets, some Black culture scholars say what's more important is that real change accompany such moves. But sometimes these historical figures don't deserve their reputations. One of the most controversial figures in modern history, Trump received widespread criticism throughout his presidency, with his policies on immigration, healthcare, and climate change stoking incredible division. May 13, 2021 · There are at least two plausible responses to this argument. Oct 5, 2023 · The British government said Thursday that contested statues should be kept in place but complemented with a comprehensive explanation, in guidance reacting to a spate of statue removals during Mar 1, 2025 · Over 2K sports fans have voted on the 210+ people on Most Controversial Athletes in Sports History. The fact that they are usually modeled after famous people or objects or are in memory of certain events will often put them at the center of controversy. Here are our top five 'controversial' historical figures. Explore the lives and controversies of 20 historical figures who have left a lasting impact on history. Should students admire, despise, or feel sorrow when learning about controversial topics of history? Teachers may want to teach students how to look at history through the cultural and political perspectives of the times to help their students understand how history can become so controversial. A list of controversial people, including Donald Trump, Karl Marx, Germaine Greer, Peter Singer, and Thomas Malthus. Why is Cecil Rhodes such a controversial figure? BBC News 1 April 2015 FOR The trouble with people who lived in the past David Mitchell Guardian 16 March 2016 Must Rhodes fall? Matthew D’Ancona New York Times 28 January 2016 Racism at Oxford goes deeper than a statue of Cecil Rhodes Dena Latif Guardian 4 January 2016 Cecil Rhodes and Oriel Jul 3, 2024 · When learning about historical figures, we often see a textbook summary of a few paragraphs detailing key dates, events, and actions that made them historically important. The first is to see it as a reductio of the proposition that hypocrites lack the standing to blame: if this implies that most people presumptively ought not blame historical figures for any wrongdoing, then so much the worse for that proposition. Apr 15, 2020 · Attila the Hun is controversial due to his reputation for both savagery and effective leadership, his complex interactions with the Roman Empire, and the significant impact his rule had on subsequent European history. In this blog post May 1, 2020 · Here’s what the descendants of eight controversial historical figures are doing right now. Uncover the debates and impacts of their actions on history and society. Theodoric means "The peoples king"; he was much beloved by his subjects. Current Top 3: Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Matt Gaetz Most Gothic figures of that time had a name that was related to their role in history. Monuments of controversial historical figures should be removed history is ongoing/ evolving values of society change legacy achievements not omitted society determines its history Aug 16, 2024 · Explore seven public sculptures that have sparked debates and controversies, from the past to the present, and discover their social and historical impact. Nov 4, 2025 · Stacker compiled a list highlighting 28 LGBTQ+ people who made a mark on history, referencing articles, personal letters, and books. This period saw the rise and fall of leaders whose policies and actions left lasting impressions, often sparking intense debate. S. Jun 10, 2020 · Christopher Columbus is an increasingly controversial historical figure, so the many statues across North America dedicated to him are not popular with everyone. Should historic statues be taken down? Learn the pros and cons of the debate. These figures, whether viewed as champions or tyrants, played pivotal roles in shaping the political landscapes of their times. Feb 27, 2025 · Decoding the World's Most Controversial Historical Figures History is filled with figures who changed the world—some seen as heroes, others as villains, and many as both. Available for both RF and RM licensing. This article looks at 30 celebrities who routinely appear on online polls and discussion threads about the most disliked figures in pop culture today. Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're counting down our picks for the twenty figures in history whose actions, beliefs, and/or policies have been subjects of heavy debate. Nov 12, 2016 · From John Lennon to Ben Franklin to Mahatma Gandhi, these appallingly controversial quotes will leave you utterly speechless. Jan 13, 2025 · The era from 1960 to 2000 was marked by significant political upheaval and transformation worldwide. Oct 4, 2023 · Why there's disagreement over how we view our historical figures What’s going on in the minds of those who topple statues, and why are some so opposed to them coming down? MSN Jun 16, 2020 · Many Americans feel there’s no room for debate as the fight over the country’s controversial statues, monuments and building names gains momentum. Friendships, alliances, even family ties—nothing was ever safe in the grand theater of history. Aug 13, 2015 · Should memorials to controversial historical figures be removed from universities? Three academics examine buildings, art and statues that arguably have no place on a campus in 2015 Published on August 13, 2015 May 26, 2024 · The enduring fascination with Richard III reflects the power of historical figures to shape our understanding of the past and the importance of ongoing research and interpretation in illuminating the complexities of human character and motivation. Jun 16, 2020 · Many Americans feel there’s no room for debate as the fight over the country’s controversial statues, monuments and building names gains momentum. In some instances, protests and even riots have occurred as a result of statue-related strife. However, history suggests he cared little 6 Nonconformist Innovators Who Changed Our World Discover freethinkers, heretics, and unappreciated geniuses who revolutionized their fields Jun 12, 2020 · Protests over the killing of George Floyd have led to the removal of historical statues across the U. Not all monuments, however, are widely recognized, and some have provoked debates and controversy since their creation. In this article, we will delve into the lives of 15 such figures, examining how and why their legacies have been misrepresented over time. Or, maybe they were always a bad person, and they were just good at hiding it from the masses. A statue in Boston was beheaded (photo). From the Civil War, a devastating conflict over slavery, to the Watergate scandal that exposed corruption at the highest level, these events left indelible marks. You get to know how their lives transformed from a young age and their rise up the ranks in the Throughout US history, a series of deeply controversial moments have shaped the nation's identity and provoked intense debates. #HistoryUncovered #ControversialFigures #RealHistory #DidYouKnow Jan 25, 2016 · Wikipedia recently celebrated its 15th birthday and released some fascinating data on the most-edited articles of all time. Mar 2, 2025 · For example, some people took actions that were controversial to their contemporaries, but historical revisionism, which is usually entrenched in prejudices, can promote a misleading view of a past figure that glorifies their actions or beliefs. This category is for individuals who do not fall under WP:BLP criteria, and are thus dead, but not recently-dead (see WP:BDP). Some might be undoubtedly crazy and some might be remotely possible, if not actually true. In this blog post, we will explore the hidden stories of infamous personalities in pop culture, unraveling the truth behind By Miles Ezeilo Public statues are often created around the world to memorialize major historical persons, events, and ideas. Feb 3, 2022 · Protesters pulled down only 13 Confederate monuments and 22 monuments to other controversial historical figures like Columbus. Attila the Hun is a controversial historical figure primarily due to the blend of barbarity and capable leadership he demonstrated. In the United Dec 16, 2023 · In this post, you’ll find: 10 influential figures to celebrate during Black History Month Black historical figures who pushed social justice forward Famous African Americans from the 20th and 21st centuries Important Black History Month figures to acknowledge and celebrate Historical Black figures who challenged discrimination to achieve The argument that surrounds controversial historical monuments has long existed but re-emerged after George Floyd’s death and the unrest that followed it. In light of the arguments on both sides, should monuments of controversial historical figures be removed, or does this do a disservice to history, and make us victims of history rather than subjects who can understand and engage with it? And who should take these decisions? Category:Historical figures with ambiguous or disputed gender identity This category is for non-recent historical figures whose gender identity is ambiguous or disputed, and thus subject to controversy. Marie-Antoinette de Lorraine-Habsbourg, queen of France, and her children, Elisabeth Louise Vigée-Lebrun, 1787, From the collection of: Palace of Versailles Marie-Antoinette is one of the most controversial monarchs of all Dec 10, 2024 · History is full of figures who once stood on pedestals, admired and celebrated for their contributions, leadership, or charisma. Jun 23, 2020 · David Greene talks to Manisha Sinha, professor of American history at the University of Connecticut, about the recent toppling of non-Confederate statues like those of George Washington. This article delves into the lives of 20 individuals who were perhaps lauded or perceived differently during their time, but whose true extent of cruelty, corruption, or moral bankruptcy only came to light through discoveries and re-evaluations after their passing. From political scandals to social upheavals, these moments have shaped the nation’s path in surprising ways. Many of the monuments and statues, most of which depict Confederate leaders or Christopher Col… Dec 8, 2023 · Over the decades, TIME Magazine has named many controversial people Person of the Year, with some of the choices baffling readers. Sep 16, 2024 · It's about time these incredible Black history figures get the acknowledgment they deserve for their contributions to American society. Mar 18, 2025 · Controversial Historical Figure | Source: History Extra Historically, many influential persons transformed the planet by taking actions that prompted distinct responses from human populations. These individuals, often seen through a distorted lens, may have been labeled unfairly, their true contributions or intentions buried beneath layers of myth. Oct 4, 2025 · History is full of figures who have been misunderstood, their legacies shaped by misinformation, bias, or the lens of the time they lived in. Richard the Lionheart - The Richard of popular legend was a good king who led noble crusades. Nov 21, 2023 · Here are the most controversial celebrities from the infamous Chris Brown, scandalous Amber Heard, to the 'problematic' Justin Bieber. Several of the city’s approximately 80 schools are named after local or national historical figures with controversial track records. But looking at the textbook version of these figures can make it hard to see them as real, three-dimensional people, with We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. History has given us many a person that did great for humanity, yet also did evil things. The two that come to mind for me are Robert Moses. Most of these activists concealed their faces or struck at night. Here, we will explore and rank the 13 most divisive US presidents, as determined by political scientists. (Mayor London Breed called the timing of the move “offensive” because the schools are not even open yet). Proponents of removal Mar 14, 2024 · The debate over historical monuments: should they be renamed or removed? Explore the controversy and the impact on future generations. Implemented some of the largest public infrastructure that made society better, yet also Jul 21, 2020 · The U. Oct 4, 2023 · Why there's disagreement over how we view our historical figures What’s going on in the minds of those who topple statues, and why are some so opposed to them coming down? MSN Jun 23, 2025 · Writing biographies of bad people is challenging, said Harvard historian Fredrik Logevall. However, the narratives surrounding these controversial historical figures can often be clouded by misinterpretations, exaggerations, and the passage of time. While yes… everybody makes mistakes and there’s a difference in time periods, some actions are inexcusable. May 8, 2025 · This article delves into the lives and actions of some of the most controversial figures in history, exploring their impact on society and how perceptions of them have evolved over time. However, as our understanding of history evolves, many of these figures are now viewed in a different light, more complex, and often controversial. This article delves into the lives of 20 individuals who were perhaps lauded or perceived differently during their time, but whose true Apr 23, 2025 · News The 10 most controversial people on The Standard’s inaugural SF100 power list These are the most divisive names on the SF100, according to the people who assembled it. Our countdown of controversial people in history includes Thomas Edison, Karl Marx, Richard Nixon, Donald Trump, Christopher Columbus, and more! read more From celebrated leaders to revered icons, some historical figures aren't as heroic as we've been led to believe. isn't the only country where statues of controversial historical figures have been swept aside by protesters seeking a clean break with the past. Aug 11, 2025 · History’s pages are filled with remarkable leaders, brilliant minds, and inspiring heroes, but these twenty-one controversial figures were so destructive, cruel, or downright terrifying that their deaths actually made the world a better place. I was interested in studying controversial people, so took a list of the Nov 18, 2024 · The landscape of American politics has been perennially shaped by figures whose actions triggered extensive debate and division across the nation. Apr 27, 2021 · One person's hero is another's villain. Jan 8, 2024 · controversial figures may amount to ‘erasing history’16, that memorials and commemoration rituals can function as a form of ‘emotional imperialism’17, and whether we ought to treat the narratives of those depicted in statues as fictional symbols rather than accurate historical records18. J. Mar 17, 2024 · The controversial legacies of historical figures often stem from actions or beliefs that are deemed morally questionable or ethically problematic by modern standards. This blog post explores 15 historical figures who have sparked debates over their actions. Perceptions of historical figures can change greatly over time as new evidence or ways of looking at the past come to light. From political leaders to celebrities, athletes, and citizens, we all have made mistakes big and small. His voyages in 1492 opened the door to the Age of Exploration, marking the beginning of widespread European colonization of the Americas. Political scandals have dogged Washington Jul 16, 2020 · CSUF historian Margie Brown-Coronel discusses the removal of monuments and statues with controversial histories, from Confederate generals to Spanish conquistadors. The first section is a chronological arrangement of monuments and memorials on which some action has already taken place, such as removal, defacement, and Jun 12, 2025 · These misinterpretations can dramatically alter how we perceive historical figures, affecting both their reputations and the lessons we draw from their lives. Jul 18, 2020 · The debate over controversial statues and monuments Controversial statues are being removed amid worldwide civil rights protests, but there is some disagreement about what to do with them. Join us as we explore the controversial sides of individuals often idolized in Apr 18, 2019 · With nearly 250 years of American history accounted for, it’s perhaps no surprise that the nation’s political life has had its good and bad moments. But many of the same stories get told over and over again - think of Henry VIII or Abraham Lincoln - even though there are plenty of lesser-known, unsung historical figures who deserve a movie about their lives, too. Oct 30, 2025 · History often celebrates influential figures for their groundbreaking achievements, but even the most iconic individuals have darker, more troubling sides to their legacies. Sep 4, 2020 · Several historical figures in American history are considered controversial, including Andrew Jackson for the Trail of Tears, Woodrow Wilson for his segregationist policies, and Christopher Columbus for his treatment of indigenous peoples. The work of World Heritage USA and the Monuments Toolkit aims to shed light on these amazing pieces of culture found all around us. In today’s article, we’re going to go over famous figures throughout time who have been praised in the history books, but Jul 6, 2023 · The controversial leaders of the world take on the lives of the major politicians in the world. Mar 10, 2025 · From celebrated leaders to revered icons, some historical figures aren't as heroic as we've been led to believe. This […] Jun 12, 2020 · Whether it be removing statues of controversial historical figures or renaming streets, some Black culture scholars say what's more important is that real change accompany such moves. Our countdown of controversial people in history includes Thomas Edison, Karl Marx, Richard Nixon, Donald Trump, Christopher Columbus, and more! What do you make of these people? Mar 26, 2021 · Unfortunately, the American education system has a tendency to idolize historical people that, when researched, you can discover that they often didn’t practice what they preached. Current Top 3: O. Some argued that her intentions were solely to convert people to Christianity. These are nine of the most controversial since 1927, when the title was founded 6 days ago · Public opinion can turn on famous people quickly, and a handful of names seem to attract a disproportionate amount of backlash. Those who choose to live in ignorance and avoid historical figures with personal shortcomings are destined to face the same future. In the words of historian David Starkey: "Richard III is a figure who will always divide opinion. Feb 2, 2021 · Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? The San Francisco Board of Education recently voted to rename 44 schools, citing a reckoning with racism. There is a major difference between saying the wrong thing every once in Feb 7, 2022 · Learning about the larger systems and historical events that have played central roles in shaping Black history is vitally important, but it is also valuable to explore the individual lives, ideas, choices, and legacies of key figures in that unfolding story. Mar 9, 2024 · The 4 Most Controversial Historical Events from the Past 200 Years Hindsight is 20/20, and it is not always positive. 21. . Nov 21, 2022 · Stacker compiled a list of some of the most influential and controversial figures. Their accomplishments remain significant, but so do the lesser-known facts that challenge their public image. Simpson, Aaron Hernandez, Tonya Sep 11, 2025 · Jesus One of the most famous and controversial figures of all time, Jesus is a person whose historicity continues to be debated to this day. Jul 15, 2025 · Think again before you snap a selfie with these iconic monuments, some of the most controversial statues from around the world. Among others, protesters have targeted Christopher Columbus. Jun 17, 2020 · California protesters and lawmakers are calling for the removal of statues of Christopher Columbus and other controversial historical figures. Read on to learn more about some of history’s most controversial actions in the past 200 years. Fritigern means "Yearns for peace"; he was the king who struck the deal with the Romans. Sep 15, 2025 · Hollywood loves a good biopic. Nov 17, 2014 · A new, special issue of Smithsonian magazine attempts the impossible: to list out the most significant people in United States history Oct 10, 2018 · Two decades later, Ofili’s controversial painting has earned a place in the arc of art history—and in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art. Jul 21, 2020 · The U. This list may not reflect recent changes. Three experts share their thoughts on remembering the past, history and activism. Jun 17, 2020 · Since June 2020, Education Week has tracked if & when the more than 300 schools named after Confederate figures changed their names. Jan 19, 2024 · 40 Famous Black People Who Changed the World *Originally published by Brian in November 2022 and updated by Brian in January 2024 The black dynasty has been a matter of concern in prominent activities worldwide Throughout history, certain individuals have left an indelible mark on society, shaping cultures and ideologies. History teachers and tutors frequently encounter all sorts of characters who defy definition. If heritage interpretation is making meaning through framing facts, how can we as Find the perfect controversial historical figure stock photo, image, vector, illustration or 360 image. In race for Virginia governor, selectively playing the ‘Trump Card’, by Linda Feldman, Christian Science Monitor, November 6, 2017 Jul 15, 2022 · Wednesday 20 July 2022, 18:00 CEST Every country has its own controversial figures from the past and it is not always easy to find the appropriate words to interpret them. Jun 18, 2020 · The protests spurred by the killing of George Floyd have led to the targeting of offensive statues. ” There is something about power, money, and fame that truly does cause people to become terrible. Let’s go through some famous happenings throughout history—only this time, we’ll be looking at them from another viewpoint. Sep 17, 2009 · One of the great things about studying or teaching history is the possibilities it opens up for debate. From presidents and inventors to activists and entertainment moguls, their contributions to society often coexist with actions or beliefs that cast shadows on their Jul 26, 2024 · She often provided inadequate medical care in her missions and believed suffering brought people closer to God, which led to controversial practices in her hospices. 📜 Who We Cover in This Video: ️ Leaders who divided opinions ️ Revolutionaries or tyrants? ️ Monuments of controversial historical figures should be removed history is ongoing/ evolving values of society change legacy achievements not omitted society determines its history Aug 16, 2024 · Explore seven public sculptures that have sparked debates and controversies, from the past to the present, and discover their social and historical impact. While the public usually views history as objective, heritage interpretation, as well as history itself, can be largely subjective. Statues of Confederate leaders, Christopher Columbus, and other historical figures have been defaced or removed, prompting widespread debates about which aspects of history should be celebrated in public spaces. 1. These political figures, with their polarizing policies and controversial behaviors, have often steered the course of U. This list highlights 12 historical individuals whose legacies are more complicated than they seem. Uncover 22 historical figures who are publicly known for their outstanding accomplishments, but have actually done some terrible things. Jul 8, 2023 · Explore the lives of controversial historical figures through our collection of classic movies. But what got me thinking was: who can be called a “non-controversial historical figure”? What’s an Christopher Columbus stands as a pivotal yet controversial figure in history. In the United States, this is a prominent way Confederates are viewed. There is a major difference between saying the wrong thing every once in Mar 1, 2019 · As universities question buildings, statues, and structures named after controversial historical figures, librarians and archivists find a role contributing to contextual reviews of contentious namesakes. Jun 11, 2024 · Explore the lives and legacies of controversial historical figures. Whether it be enslavement and exploitation or experimentation and execution, find out what people like Mother Teresa and Christopher Columbus have to hide. DM Transatlantic: Monuments to controversial historical figures should remain Published: September 2024 Debating Matters Transatlantic is a partnership project between Bill of Rights Institute and Ideas Matter Please note, this Topic Guide should be the starting point of your research. The historical figures featured on this list either split opinion in their own time or have since seen their image rehabilitated or Jul 3, 2024 · Some historical figures seem larger than life, like Cleopatra, Gandhi, Marie Antoinette, and Mother Teresa. The Joan of Arc statue in the French Quarter of New Orleans prior to its defacement The following is a list of monument and memorial controversies in the United States excluding those dealing with the Confederate States of America. Oct 4, 2023 · A statue of Cecil Rhodes, a controversial historical figure, is seen outside Oriel College, following demonstrations for its removal in the aftermath of protests against the death of George Floyd Apr 14, 2025 · Discover the most controversial rulers in empire history—leaders who shaped nations through power, scandal, and divisive decisions. Statues stirring such discord is hardly a phenomenon limited to a handful of countries. 10 The Ancient Romans Were Actually However, some presidents have been more controversial than others, stirring up intense debates and polarizing opinions among the American public. Oct 17, 2020 · The city of San Francisco is planning on changing the names of public schools bearing the names of “controversial historical figures” like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Mar 1, 2019 · As universities question buildings, statues, and structures named after controversial historical figures, librarians and archivists find a role contributing to contextual reviews of contentious namesakes. Aug 21, 2024 · 12 historical figures once idolized but whose dark deeds now raise eyebrows—discover the controversial truths behind the legends. This blog post explores 30 of the most controversial moments, with a mix of both well-known and unexpected events, reflecting the complexity and unpredictability of American […] Mar 26, 2021 · Unfortunately, the American education system has a tendency to idolize historical people that, when researched, you can discover that they often didn’t practice what they preached. Mao Zedong May 21, 2025 · Over 1K fans have voted on the 20+ people on Most Controversial Figures Of 2025, Ranked. One day, you're sharing a meal; the next, you're signing their death warrant. How do so many historical inaccuracies sneak into our textbooks? When we tell stories about our greatest heroes, we Feb 15, 2021 · From the richest ruler in history to a controversial Renaissance ruler, here are seven lesser-known Black historical figures whose influence was felt far and wide. The Japanese internment during World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, the Jun 12, 2020 · In the US, too, disputes have flared over monuments dedicated to controversial historical figures. From revolutionaries to rulers, their stories are more […] Oct 1, 2020 · From Canada’s first Prime Minister to the British empire’s first female judge, these influential figures are having their problematic legacies questioned. Group 1's hand-picked list of controversial public figures, religious leaders and other eminent people throughout history. Che Guevara Editorial credit: Leonardo Panusia Ocanto / Shutterstock. Mar 3, 2025 · Our list of 51 famous women in history spans many time periods, backgrounds, and professions to demonstrate the scope of incredible female accomplishments. Mar 11, 2014 · It’s fun to look at famous historical events from another angle; you never know what kind of new information and insights you can get. Oct 23, 2025 · In recent years, political and social movements have called for statues of various historical figures to be taken down, , leading to protests and public outcry. From serious legal scandals to off-putting public behavior, each entry reflects reasons some viewers have grown History often paints a complex picture of its key figures. Jun 25, 2025 · Throughout history, certain figures have been labeled as cowards, while others view their cautiousness as a strategic virtue. That’s how betrayal triggered revolutions and rewrote entire timelines. history, eliciting admiration from some while drawing condemnation from others. ” To that end, we asked Logevall and other Harvard faculty members to recommend books about controversial historical figures that help us better understand humanity’s worst impulses. From political leaders to revolutionaries, these figures shaped history in ways that still spark debate today. “Somehow monsters must be made to be human and complex if we are to understand why they behaved as they did. May 24, 2021 · What if Twitter had existed for hundreds of years? Here are some politically-incorrect quotes that would have ended up with historical figures getting canceled. Over the years ethicists and historians have written papers, and in some instances spend a semester of higher education studying the actions of some of these people. May 11, 2022 · From Cheating On Their Spouses To Stealing Ideas, These 18 Historical Figures Were Actually Pretty Problematic They certainly didn't teach us about Albert Einstein's messy personal life in history Pages in category "Historical controversies" The following 62 pages are in this category, out of 62 total. Follow engaging narratives sparking debates! Jul 21, 2020 · The U. The historian Lord Acton once said, “Great men are almost always bad men. Published: Mar 9, 2024 written by Kassandre Dwyer, MEd History Dec 29, 2024 · The United States has seen its fair share of controversies throughout its history. rkiw sxsem gojrid lovo xwqw bnktnl opqdsc jpd dpbiuk bpnhm tsvum kezhg rjzq vjfs wkevv