December's edition of the The Atlantic Monthly features a list of the 100 most influential figures in American history. It's an entertaining read that is sure to spark a lot of discussion and debate among history buffs and others interested in the personalities that shaped the country.
The Atlantic's editorial staff consulted with historians in compiling the list, and provided context and rationale to explain their choices. Since the rankings are based on judgment and the values of the editors and historians, the arguments in favor of PT Barnum and Herman Melville over say, Bob Dylan and Muhammad Ali (relegated to secondary / living consideration) are largely abstract. And no doubt there are probably good arguments to made to include or exclude lots of folks.
There was a time (before reality TV) when people played parlor games, such as debating whether individuals influenced events or events shaped and formed people. There's a good case to be made for both positions and in truth, it's not likely a binary thing anyway. The larger discussion about influence though remains highly relevant, and not limited to history. The landscape is changing pretty dramatically -- is there any doubt social media will play a significant role in the run up to the 2008 national campaign? In shaping the major issues and events of the coming years? Which influencers will define the terms of debate and the agenda?
