40 Facts About Statesman

Pericles: The Athenian Statesman

Pericles was a towering figure in ancient Greek history. His leadership and vision helped shape Athens into a cultural and political powerhouse.

1. Pericles (c. 495 BCE – 429 BCE) was an Athenian statesman who played a crucial role in the development of Athenian democracy and the Athenian Empire.
2. He is credited with the construction of the Acropolis, which began in 447 BCE, a symbol of Athenian glory.
3. Pericles' policies aimed at strengthening Athens and promoting its cultural and economic growth.
4. His leadership during the Peloponnesian War was marked by his ability to inspire his people and maintain morale despite dire circumstances.
5. Pericles carried a law in 451 or 450 BCE confining Athenian citizenship to those of Athenian parentage on both sides.
6. His only recorded military campaign was a naval expedition in the Corinthian Gulf in 454 BCE, where Athens defeated Achaea but failed to win more important objectives.
7. Pericles' strategy during the Peloponnesian War focused on holding off the enemy by fortifying Athens and its allies.
8. He was born into a wealthy family and inherited landed property at Cholargus, just north of Athens.
9. Pericles' father, Xanthippus, was a member of the Alcmaeonid family and began his political career by a dynastic marriage.
10. Pericles' relationship with his wife, Aspasia, a philosopher, significantly influenced his policies and intellectual development.

The Statesman (India)

The Statesman is one of India's oldest and most respected newspapers. Its history and impact on journalism are noteworthy.

11. The Statesman is an Indian English-language broadsheet daily newspaper founded in 1818.
12. It is published simultaneously in Kolkata, New Delhi, Siliguri, and Bhubaneswar.
13. The newspaper is known for its terse reporting style and liberal editorial stance.
14. It opposed the shifting of India's capital from Calcutta to New Delhi in 1911.
15. The Statesman strenuously opposed Indira Gandhi's Emergency in 1975–77.
16. Under editor Ian Stephens, it published highly disturbing images of the effects of the Bengal famine of 1943, despite British colonial government attempts at censorship.
17. The Statesman carries several supplements, including "Section 2," which provides in-depth analysis on art, dance, literature, drama, fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment.
18. In Kolkata, the supplement "Voices" focuses on schools and schoolchildren, showcasing their writing skills.
19. The Sunday supplement "8th Day" consists of reader-contributed short stories and poems.
20. The Statesman has a sister edition, Dainik Statesman, a daily Bengali newspaper launched in June 2004.

The New Statesman (UK)

The New Statesman is a British political and cultural news magazine with a rich history of progressive journalism.

21. The New Statesman was founded in 1913 by Sidney and Beatrice Webb with the support of George Bernard Shaw.
22. It has been a leading progressive political and cultural magazine, recognized for its progressive politics and quality writing.
23. The magazine has featured notable contributors such as J M Keynes, Bertrand Russell, George Orwell, and Christopher Hitchens.
24. Clifford Sharp was the first editor from 1913 to 1931, followed by J C Squire from 1917 to 1920.
25. Kingsley Martin, who served from 1931 to 1960, was a significant figure in the magazine's history.
26. After Martin's retirement, John Freeman took over as editor until 1965.
27. Paul Johnson, who followed Freeman, led the magazine to its highest ever circulation during his tenure.
28. The New Statesman has undergone significant digital expansion in recent years.
29. In 2021, it launched a refreshed magazine, website, and digital editions as part of a major international expansion.
30. Digital subscriptions grew by 75% in a single year, taking the overall circulation to a 40-year high.

Pericles’ Legacy

Pericles' influence on Athenian society and culture remains significant even today. His contributions to democracy and the arts are still celebrated.

31. Pericles' legacy extends beyond his political achievements, remembered for his contributions to the development of Athenian democracy and culture.
32. His policies aimed at strengthening Athens and promoting its cultural and economic growth.
33. The construction of the Acropolis, which began during his tenure, is a testament to his commitment to cultural development.
34. Pericles' leadership style emphasized the importance of public education and the arts.
35. He believed that a well-educated citizenry was essential for the survival and prosperity of a democratic society.
36. Pericles' death in 429 BCE during the Peloponnesian War was a significant loss for Athens.
37. His legacy continued to shape Athenian society long after his death.
38. Pericles' impact on Athenian culture made Athens a cultural center in ancient Greece.
39. His policies aimed at promoting the arts and education, making Athens a beacon of civilization.
40. Pericles' contributions to the development of the Athenian Empire and its cultural achievements are still remembered today.

Lasting Impact of Statesmen

Statesmen like Pericles have left a mark on history through their leadership, strategic thinking, and dedication to their people. Pericles' contributions to Athenian democracy and culture are still remembered today. Similarly, The Statesman (India) and The New Statesman (UK) have played significant roles in journalism, shaping public discourse and promoting cultural development. These publications have been voices of reason and progress, influencing opinions and sparking important conversations. Understanding the lives and achievements of these figures and institutions gives us valuable insights into governance, culture, and journalism. Their legacies remind us of the power of leadership and the importance of staying committed to the common good. Whether through politics or media, the impact of true statesmen continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence and integrity in their own pursuits.