Attributes of courageous persons in the society

Commitment – When they make promises, they are committed to fulfilling or carrying out their promises. The commitment is a driving force that gives them courage to continue. For example, a person who committed himself to the clearing of the classroom. This commitment gives him or her the courage to clean the classroom whether it is convenient or not.

Endurance – It is the ability to suffer difficulties or pain with strength and patience.

Determination – The ability to continue trying to achieve what you have decided to do even when this is difficult is called determination. Many people fail to achieve the desired result because of lack of determination.

Steadfastness – It is the faithful and loyal way of following a thing, a discipline or religion. When a person is steadfast, he/she follows that discipline or religion without looking back

Diligence – A person who works hard.

Boldness – To be bold means not to be afraid of taking risk to achieve good things. It could also involve making difficult decision to attain a greater height. The fear of taking such risks make people to remain mediocre today.

Bravery – These are actions, behaviours, attitude that show courage and confidence. Most of the attributes discussed so far may show courage but may not show confidence.

Examples of Courageous People Throughout History

Moses After escaping from his slavery in Egypt, led his people out of Egypt and across the Red Sea.

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) A key figure in the American revolution and foremost author of the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson sought to challenge existing policies on religious tolerance, education and slavery.

Martin Luther King (1929 – 1968) A symbol of the fight against racial discrimination. Martin Luther King passionately supported the civil rights movement, despite virulent opposition and discrimination in parts of America.

Nelson Mandela (1918 – 2013) Nelson Mandela had the courage to fight against the unjust system of apartheid. For his political activities, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, but he was released to lead a free South Africa.

Winston Churchill (1874 – 1965) In 1940, Britain stood, alone against Nazi Germany. Some in Britain wanted to seek a deal with Hitler, but Churchill wanted to fight on, and he inspired Britain through their darkest hour.

Rosa Parks (1913-2005) Refused to give up seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama and started a mass protest which led to the end of segregation on public transport.

Socrates (469 BC–399 BC) – Greek philosopher. Socrates was willing to die for his beliefs. Arrested for his philosophic teachings, Socrates was willing to accept death rather than change his opinions and beliefs. It is said he calmly accepted his fate.

Emmeline Pankhurst – Leading suffragette in the UK. Emmeline Pankhurst went to jail several times for her protests to gain women the vote.

Joan of Arc – Peasant girl who went to Dauphin of France to encourage him to fight English occupation. Led French army into battle.

Sophie Scholl (1921-1943) German student who took part in the White Rose Resistance group who opposed Hitler and the Nazi Party. She was arrested in 1943 for distributing anti-war leaflets and was executed.

Assessment

Give two examples of courageous acts you have carried out in time past.

Mention 4 Courageous persons in Nigeria that you and their acts of courage (From the History of Nigeria, hints – Martyrs)