The ten most influential people of the 21st Century… so far – Part One
Jan 2, 2025
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Join historian Alex Von Tunzelmann, famed for her BBC work, and Guardian columnist Rafael Behr as they delve into the most influential figures of the 21st century. They dissect the profound effects of 9/11 on nationalism and public perception, and explore the urgent activism of Greta Thunberg alongside David Attenborough's seasoned efforts in environmental advocacy. The duo also navigates the complex legacy of Narendra Modi and the rise of global nationalism, blending political analysis with cultural commentary for a thought-provoking discussion.
Osama bin Laden's actions post-9/11 instigated military invasions, highlighting individual impact on global geopolitics and security concerns.
Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough significantly advanced the climate movement by transforming public discourse and prioritizing environmental stewardship.
Deep dives
The Impact of 9/11 and Osama bin Laden
Osama bin Laden significantly shaped the trajectory of the 21st century through the September 11 attacks, which resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities and altered Western policies. His actions not only instigated military invasions in Afghanistan and Iraq but also incited a global manhunt for his capture that captivated international attention. The psychological effects of these events led to an era marked by heightened security concerns in the U.S. and a rise in nationalistic rhetoric, intertwined with a portrayal of the West as vulnerable to terrorism. Bin Laden’s influence reignited the great man theory in history, suggesting that individual actions could dramatically reshape geopolitical landscapes.
Climate Activism and Generational Change
Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough emerged as pivotal figures in the global climate movement, significantly influencing environmental discourse in the 21st century. Thunberg's youth and passionate activism, particularly her school strike movement, mobilized millions and brought urgent attention to the climate crisis, though she often faced criticism and backlash for her outspoken nature. In contrast, Attenborough’s long-standing commitment to wildlife and climate advocacy helped bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public engagement, appealing to a broad audience through traditional media. Together, their efforts have elevated climate change to a core issue of ethical and existential significance, promoting a more profound cultural dialogue around environmental stewardship.
The Polarization of Indian Politics Under Modi
Narendra Modi's tenure as Prime Minister of India signifies a major shift towards Hindu nationalism, impacting both national and international politics. His leadership has fostered a stark division in Indian society, with supporters praising his economic progress while critics accuse him of undermining democratic principles and targeting minority communities, particularly Muslims. Modi's approach represents a broader trend among global leaders who leverage populist rhetoric to consolidate power by emphasizing national identity over pluralism. The implications of his rule extend beyond India, as his governance style reflects growing authoritarianism that challenges traditional democratic frameworks in the 21st century.
The Tech Bros: Titans of the Digital Revolution
The Tech Bros, including Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, have transformed the global landscape through their revolutionary advancements in technology and business. This group has amassed unprecedented wealth and influence, reshaping economies and social interactions while raising concerns about data privacy and corporate power in democracy. Their impact parallels that of historical figures during the industrial revolution, highlighting a shift from democratic ideals to oligarchic structures where few individuals wield enormous control. As their reach extends further, the potential backlash against their dominance indicates a critical tension in managing technology's role in society, questioning how much power should reside in private hands.
Incredibly, we’re already nearly a quarter of the way through the 21st Century. Who are the big figures who’ve shaped and transformed, or more often, terrorised and devastated, our political and physical worlds? And how did 20th century dreams of a stable consensus tomorrow fall apart? A panel of Bunker regulars – BBC veteran Gavin Esler, historian and author Alex Von Tunzelmann and Guardian columnist Rafael Behr – assemble to choose the first five of our Century Shapers.
Part Two out tomorrow or available now on Patreon.
• We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.
Presented by Gavin Esler. Audio production by Simon Williams and Robin Leeburn. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Managing Editor Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production