Some historians argue that individuals — such as Napoleon or Hitler — are the driving motors of history. Others disagree and posit that instead these famous individuals emerge into the spotlight and create unprecedented change because of historical circumstances. Watch a series of videos about the individual’s early life on Napoleon and career and decide if it was the individual who made history or whether historical events, including prevailing ideas at the time and personal circumstances, shaped the individual. After watching the videos, using your textbook and doing outside research, write a coherent essay answering examining the issue of individual vs. circumstances. Some questions to consider while writing your essay: How did the actions of your chosen historical figure shape the course of history? How was this individual shaped by the historical times in which they lived or other circumstances in his life? Which has played a greater role in determining the shape of history — ideas or individuals?
