Respect is a very simple gesture; however the individual who chooses to be respectful can earn much more in return. This was demonstrated by the success of an Athenian political leader, Pericles, who was known for getting his arguments across without offending the listener. The gift of communication was something that Pericles learned to use to his advantage. His well-worded speeches can be found on the pages of Thucydides' History of the Peloponnesian War, where it is clear that his sharp tongue and outspoken personality played a key role in his political career. Through thick and thin, Pericles continued to lead Athens and never spoke negatively about his city. His nationalism demonstrated the love he had for his home and demonstrated to the Athenians his pristine means of governing. Many scholars and authors agree on how phenomenal Pericles' leadership was, while textbooks even give him the title of “guiding spirit of Athenian imperialism” (Pomeroy 164). Although his methods are approved today, by referring to Plutarch's work Life of Pericles one might note that there were many authority figures in Athens who did not appreciate Pericles' style of government. But this did not discourage him, on the contrary it led him to become stronger and closer to his people. Pericles had democratic views unlike the rest of ancient Greece; however his unique ways of ruling helped him maintain order in Athens' golden age. While the success of a political leader is commonly recognized through the magnitude of his achievements, Pericles also recognized the importance of understanding and respecting his people. The people of Athens were Pericles' wealth. Having been born into a wealthy family, to his father Xanthippus...... middle of paper ......ness. And above all Pericles had great respect for himself and managed very well to regain respect. All human beings want to be treated properly, and Pericles was successful in doing so during his leadership, which is why he was such a great political leader. Works Cited Plutarch. "The Life of Pericles." The Complete Works of Plutarch. New York: English and French Literature Society, 1909. Sir Thomas Browne. Network. 06 November 2011..Pomeroy, Sarah B. "Pericles and the Growth of Athenian Democracy." A brief history of ancient Greece: politics, society and culture. New York: Oxford UP, 2009. 164. Print.Thucydides, Rex Warner, and MI Finley. "BOOK TWO: The Politics of Pericles." History of the Peloponnesian War. Harmondsworth, English: Penguin, 1972. 143-64. Press