The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History

The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History Michael H. Hart's 1978 historical analysis ranks the 100 individuals who had the greatest impact on human civilization. The book presents a systematic evaluation based not on greatness or virtue, but on each figure's concrete influence on the course of human events. Each chapter provides a biographical sketch followed by Hart's analysis of the person's historical significance and lasting effects. The entries examine how history might have developed differently without these individuals, with particular attention to those who initiated changes that were not inevitable for their time. The work gives substantial weight to religious leaders and founders, recognizing their extensive influence on human behavior and social development across centuries. An appendix of Honorable Mentions supplements the main rankings, acknowledging additional figures who shaped history but fell outside the top 100. This controversial ranking system presents a unique perspective on historical impact, challenging readers to consider the difference between fame, moral character, and genuine influence on human development. The book raises fundamental questions about how we measure historical significance and what constitutes lasting change in human society.

Readers appreciate the detailed research and explanations behind each ranking, though many disagree with Hart's specific ordering and selection criteria. The historical context provided for each figure receives frequent mention in positive reviews. Likes: - Clear methodology explained upfront - Cross-cultural selections spanning different eras - Extensive biographical details for each entry - Sparked discussions about historical impact measurement Dislikes: - Western/male bias in selections - Religious figures' rankings controversial - Some entries feel dated (book published 1978) - Omission of key historical women - Mathematical/scientific figures overrepresented Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (280+ ratings) Common reader comment: "Thought-provoking but flawed methodology." Multiple reviewers note the book works better as a conversation starter than definitive ranking. One frequent criticism from Amazon reviews: "Hart's personal biases show through in ways that undermine the book's claimed objectivity."

Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond This comprehensive analysis of human civilization examines why different societies developed at different rates through specific measurable factors.

Who's Who in World History by Simon Adams The catalogue format presents 150 key historical figures with analysis of their impact through specific achievements and societal changes.

The Story of Civilization by Will Durant This multi-volume work examines historical figures through their concrete contributions to human development across different epochs.

Great Lives from History by Frank N. Magill The systematic organization ranks historical figures based on quantifiable impact rather than popularity or moral character.

The Dictionary of World Biography by Barry Jones This reference work catalogs influential figures through their documented effects on human progress with statistical and historical evidence.

🔹 The book caused significant controversy by ranking Muhammad #1 and Jesus #3, with Hart arguing Muhammad's combined religious and political influence exceeded Jesus's primarily spiritual impact. 🔹 Only two women made Hart's top 100 list - Queen Elizabeth I (#94) and Queen Isabella I of Castile (#95), sparking debate about historical gender bias. 🔹 The book has been translated into 15 languages and sold over 500,000 copies worldwide, despite initial skepticism from mainstream publishers. 🔹 Hart spent over 10 years researching and writing the book while working as an astrophysicist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. 🔹 Isaac Newton ranked #2 on the list - the highest-placed scientist - with Hart crediting him for establishing the foundation of both classical mechanics and calculus.