<p>Thesis: What makes people great leaders is when they attempt to promote modernization/industrialization. </p>
<p>Great leaders are strong and determined. They know where they are going, what they’re doing and how to do so. Some of the greatest leaders promoted modernization/industrialization. Kemal Ataturk and Deng Xiapong are two such leaders.</p>
<p>Kemal Ataturk was a war hero in Turkey between World War I and World War II. His goal was to modernize and westernize Turkey. He believed that Turkey had to change to survive. To demonstrate this, he changed Islamic law codes to European law codes. He also replaced the Muslim calendar with the Christian calendar. Roads, factories, and railroads were built. As a result, there was more freedom in society; women no longer had to wear veils, women were allowed to vote, and women were allowed to work. </p>
<p>Deng Xiapong was a leader who took control of China after Mao Zedong passed away. He did this by promoting foreign trade and contact with western nations. He had a policy known as the Four Modernizations. This policy modernized farming methods, upgraded and expanded industry, promoted science and technology, and improved defense and military systems. Also, Deng eliminated Mao Zedong’s communes. Farmers now had land to grow what they wanted. Industrial output increased. Government enabled private business to produce goods and offer services. The economy grew, as well as living standards. </p>
<p>In conclusion, what makes people stand out in history is if they try to improve society. If it weren’t for these Ataturk and Xiapong, we wouldn’t have many of the products that we use today. Think of Xiapong the next time you see the label, or engraving, ‘‘Made in China.’’. The next time you see, or hear about a Volitan (boat-Turkish invention), or a non-glaring headlamp (another Turkish invention), remember Kemal Ataturk.</p>