In the realm of TIME Magazine’s “Person of the Year” award, controversies have long been a constant companion, spanning from Adolf Hitler’s unsettling recognition in 1938 to the modern-day acknowledgment of figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk. As we await the revelation of the 2023 recipient, The Daily Express US takes a reflective journey into the magazine’s tumultuous history of selecting individuals who have left an indelible mark, for better or worse.
Adolf Hitler
In 1938, amid the ominous clouds of World War II, Adolf Hitler secured TIME’s Person of the Year title. Despite the chilling historical context, TIME justified the decision, citing Hitler as the “greatest threatening force” to democratic values. The annexation of the Sudetenland and Austria heightened tensions, eventually plunging the world into the abyss of World War II.
Joseph Stalin
TIME’s controversial choices extended to Joseph Stalin, named Person of the Year in 1939 and 1942. Stalin’s ruthless authoritarianism and pivotal role in defeating the Nazis earned him recognition. The Battle of Stalingrad in 1942 marked a turning point, showcasing Stalin’s indomitable leadership during a critical phase of World War II.
“History is a tapestry woven with threads of controversy; each Person of the Year adds a unique hue to the canvas of time.”
Richard Nixon
Richard Nixon, a two-time recipient in 1970 and 1971, remains one of TIME’s most controversial choices. The Watergate scandal overshadowed Nixon’s accomplishments, leading to his resignation in 1974. Despite efforts to highlight his diplomatic initiatives, Nixon’s “disconcertingly unpredictable” nature hinted at the storm that would eventually engulf his presidency.
Donald Trump
In 2016, Donald Trump, the polarizing former US president, claimed the coveted title. The decision stirred debates, given Trump’s tumultuous tenure and post-presidential controversies, including revelations about a reported 2006 affair. TIME justified the choice by highlighting Trump’s impact on American political culture and the mainstreaming of hidden electorates.
Time Magazine called to say that I was PROBABLY going to be named “Man (Person) of the Year,” like last year, but I would have to agree to an interview and a major photo shoot. I said probably is no good and took a pass. Thanks anyway!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 24, 2017
Elon Musk
Breaking away from political leaders, Elon Musk emerged as TIME’s Person of the Year in 2021. While not inherently controversial, Musk faced criticism for his handling of Twitter (now X). TIME commended Musk for reshaping life on Earth and beyond, noting his influence through Tesla, SpaceX, and the historic civilian space flight in 2021.
Elon Musk’s Holdings
| Company | Position | Noteworthy Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla | CEO | Revolutionizing the automotive industry |
| SpaceX | CEO | Successful launch of the first all-civilian space flight |
| Twitter (X) | Owner | Facing criticism amidst reshaping the platform |
| Year | Person of the Year | Justification |
|---|---|---|
| 1938 | Adolf Hitler | “Greatest threatening force” to democratic values |
| 2016 | Donald Trump | Impact on political culture and mainstreaming electorates |
| 2021 | Elon Musk | Reshaping life on Earth and beyond |
| 1970 | Richard Nixon | Diplomatic initiatives overshadowed by Watergate |
As the anticipation builds for the 2023 Person of the Year, these historical snapshots illuminate TIME Magazine’s penchant for provocative selections. Each honoree, whether a wartime adversary, political lightning rod, visionary entrepreneur, or tarnished president, has left an undeniable imprint on the fabric of history. The controversy surrounding these choices only deepens our understanding of the intricate dance between influence, legacy, and the relentless passage of time.
FAQs
Q1: What criteria does TIME Magazine use to select the Person of the Year?
A1: TIME considers individuals who significantly influenced events, for good or ill, and shaped the world during the year.
Q2: Was Adolf Hitler the only controversial winner of TIME’s Person of the Year?
A2: No, figures like Joseph Stalin and Richard Nixon also stirred controversy due to their actions and legacies.
Q3: Why was Elon Musk chosen in 2021?
A3: Musk’s recognition stemmed from his transformative impact on Earth and space through companies like Tesla and SpaceX.
Q4: Did Donald Trump’s controversies affect his selection in 2016?
A4: Yes, TIME justified his selection by emphasizing his influence on American political culture, despite widespread controversies.
Q5: How does TIME navigate the criticism surrounding its choices?
A5: TIME acknowledges the controversy but maintains that the Person of the Year reflects influence, not an endorsement.