Charismatic Leaders: Napoleon, Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Kim Il Sung

The concept of the Cult of Personality was first defined as a critique of Marx's "Cult of the Individual," but has earlier roots in the monarchy and the concept of deifying a political leader. The idea of giving adulation and god-like characteristics to a political leader is the basis for the concept of the Cult of Personality. In modern 20th century history, totalitarian leaders such as Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Kim Il Sung are prominent examples of creating a Cult of Personality in order to radically alter and transform society based upon revolutionary ideas. Stalin, however, created a unique Cult of Personality to bring Russia out her "backward" state, which ultimately led to the creation of Stalinism. This study examines primary and secondary sources that demonstrate how charismatic leaders created cults of personality to implement their revolutionary ideals, thereby altering their nation's government structure and society.