Transformational Leadership: Martin Luther King Jr. And Nelson Mandela

Transformational leadership is defined as the type of leadership where the leader identifies the changes required, creates a vision and guides the changes through to execution. The purpose of the leader is also to assist individuals within an organization to identify the importance of their roles in the job to the benefit of the organization. (Waddelll, 2013, page 170). For instance a leader can be a role model that inspires followers to challenge beyond their self-interest for the benefit of the group. Two such individuals who changed the course of history and showed such attributes were Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela, they created a vision to free the people from oppression using peaceful means and inspiring not only a nation but

Idealised Influence, a charismatic role model who builds confidence and trust (Pachamama Alliance, 2015, para 7 ) , this includes engendering trust, admiration, loyalty and respect from their followers (Brighthub, 2012, para 4).Inspirational motivation, provides meaningful work and sets high standards (Pachamama Alliance, 2015, para 8) , this includes inspiring followers towards new ideas or goals(Brighthub, 2012, para 6). Intellectual stimulation, encourages creativity by questioning common assumption and beliefs, it is aimed at self-reflective change of values and beliefs (Brighthub, 2012, para 10). Consideration, a mentor who responds to individual needs, each follower is treated as a “whole” individual rather than an employee. (Brighthub, 2012, para

During the “March for Jobs” (History.com Staff, 2009, para 3) also known as the “March on Washington” (History.com Staff, 2009, para 1) in 1963, King’s speech “I Have a Dream” (History.com Staff, 2009, para 1) showed the people that greatness can be achieved by non-violence, perseverance and a strong belief in a vision which lead to legal equality for African Americans. A prime example at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference Dr. King received a telegram from President John F. Kennedy admiring him for his contribution for democracy for all (McGurie & Hutchings, 2007). President Kennedy went on to say that all thought it was a difficult and dangerous battle, this showed that King was following his vision/dream to free the enslaved without any regard for his own personal safety (McGurie & Hutchings, 2007). This suggests that King was highly effective towards political leaders and the majority of the American people, he changed their point of view and values towards black people. Therefore King’s influence upheld the moral and ethic that brought about change towards the attitude of the political leaders and the population of America. Due to King using the power of words to get his message across the Civil Rights and the Voting Rights Acts were passed which essentially broke down all barriers between