Michael H. Hart: The Historian Who Ranked the Most Influential People in History
Michael H. Hart: The Historian Who Ranked the Most Influential People in History
Michael H. Hart, an American astrophysicist, historian, and author, is best known for his controversial and influential book, The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History. First published in 1978, the book became a bestseller and sparked debates worldwide about the individuals who have shaped the course of human history. This article delves into Hart’s life, his groundbreaking work, and the impact of his book on historical discourse.
Early Life and Education
Michael H. Hart was born on April 28, 1932, in New York City. He grew up with a passion for science and history, two fields that would later intersect in his professional life. Hart pursued a rigorous academic path, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Cornell University in 1953. He continued his education at Princeton University, where he obtained a Master of Science degree in Physics. His intellectual curiosity led him to study astronomy, and he earned a Ph.D. in Astrophysics from Indiana University in 1972.
Hart’s educational background equipped him with a unique perspective on the universe and humanity’s place within it. His deep understanding of science, combined with his interest in history, set the stage for his later work, where he would analyze historical figures not just by their achievements, but by their lasting influence on the world.
The Concept Behind The 100
The idea for The 100 came from Hart’s observation that history is often shaped by a few key individuals whose actions have had far-reaching consequences. Unlike traditional history books that focus on events, Hart’s book took a biographical approach, aiming to identify and rank the individuals who had the most significant impact on the world.
In The 100, Hart set out to rank these figures based on the criteria of influence, which he defined as the ability to affect the course of human history in a profound way. This influence could be direct, through the individual’s actions, or indirect, through their ideas or discoveries. Hart’s approach was innovative in that it sought to quantify and compare the influence of individuals across different domains, including religion, science, politics, and the arts.
The Controversial Ranking
The most controversial aspect of Hart’s book was not just the concept, but the actual ranking of the individuals. Hart’s list placed the Prophet Muhammad at the top, a choice that surprised many, especially in the Western world where figures like Jesus Christ, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein might have been expected to hold the top spot.
Hart justified his choice by arguing that Muhammad was not only the founder of Islam but also a successful political leader whose influence extended far beyond the religious sphere. Hart noted that Muhammad played a pivotal role in shaping the course of world history, particularly in the regions of the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, where Islam has been a dominant force for centuries.
Jesus Christ was ranked second, a decision that also drew attention and debate. Hart acknowledged Jesus’ profound impact on religion and culture but argued that the early spread of Christianity was more heavily influenced by Paul the Apostle, who Hart placed sixth on the list. Hart’s rankings reflect his attempt to measure influence in terms of historical reach and impact, rather than personal greatness or moral character.
Isaac Newton, whom Hart ranked third, represented the highest-ranking scientist on the list. Hart credited Newton with laying the foundations of modern physics and mathematics, noting that his discoveries in mechanics, optics, and calculus had an unparalleled influence on the development of science and technology.
Reception and Criticism
The 100 received a mixed reception upon its release. While many praised Hart for his ambitious and thought-provoking approach to history, others criticized his choices and the methodology used to rank the figures. The book was particularly controversial in religious circles, where some readers took issue with the placement of religious figures, especially Muhammad and Jesus.
Critics also questioned Hart’s inclusion of certain figures while omitting others they believed to be more influential. For instance, some argued that figures like Napoleon Bonaparte, who was ranked 34th, should have been placed higher, while others took issue with the inclusion of controversial figures such as Adolf Hitler, who was ranked 39th. The debate highlighted the subjective nature of Hart’s criteria and the difficulty of quantifying influence across different domains and eras.
Despite the controversy, The 100 became a bestseller and was translated into several languages, reaching a global audience. The book’s success can be attributed to its ability to engage readers in a discussion about the nature of influence and the individuals who have shaped the world. Whether readers agreed with Hart’s rankings or not, the book encouraged them to think critically about history and the factors that drive change.
Impact and Legacy
Michael H. Hart’s The 100 has had a lasting impact on how people think about history and historical figures. The book’s biographical approach to ranking influential people has inspired numerous imitators and adaptations, with various authors and scholars attempting to create their own lists of the most influential individuals in history.
Hart’s work has also influenced popular culture, with references to The 100 appearing in various forms of media, from television shows to academic discussions. The book’s enduring popularity suggests that the concept of ranking historical figures resonates with people, perhaps because it offers a way to make sense of the complex web of events and personalities that have shaped the world.
In addition to The 100, Hart has written other books on topics ranging from history to science fiction. His diverse interests and intellectual curiosity have made him a versatile author and thinker, contributing to discussions on a wide range of subjects.
Later Life and Views
In later years, Hart continued to engage in controversial topics, including his views on race and intelligence, which have attracted criticism. His 1996 book, Understanding Human History, presented a perspective on human history that some have found problematic, leading to further debates about his views and their implications.
Hart’s controversial stances have overshadowed his earlier work for some, but his contribution to historical discourse through The 100 remains significant. The book continues to be a reference point for discussions about historical influence, even as it challenges readers to question the criteria by which we judge the importance of historical figures.
Conclusion
Michael H. Hart’s The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History is a landmark work that has sparked debate, inspired imitation, and challenged conventional views on history. By attempting to quantify and rank the influence of individuals across different domains and eras, Hart offered a new way of thinking about the people who have shaped our world.
While the book has its critics, its impact on historical discourse cannot be denied. Hart’s rankings continue to provoke discussion and reflection on the nature of influence and the legacy of those who have left an indelible mark on human history. As we continue to study and reinterpret the past, Michael H. Hart’s work serves as a reminder of the complex and often subjective nature of historical significance.
