The Role of Charismatic Leaders in National and Liberation Movements: A Comparative Study of Mahatma Gandhi and Mullah Mustafa Barzani

Abstract

This study investigates the essential roles played by charismatic leaders in national and liberation movements, specifically examining the contrasting leadership approaches of Mahatma Gandhi during India's independence struggle and Mullah Mustafa Barzani in the Kurdish liberation movement. Through a comprehensive comparative analysis utilizing historical literature, primary sources, speeches, and biographies, the research endeavors to illuminate both the similarities and disparities in their leadership styles, strategies, ideologies, and impacts on their respective movements. Essential areas of investigation encompass the genesis and evolution of their charismatic authority, methods employed for mobilization and resistance, dynamics of relationships with followers and adversaries, and the lasting legacies they left behind. By drawing upon theoretical frameworks from disciplines such as leadership studies, political science, and sociology, this study aspires to deepen our comprehension of the intricate dynamics of charismatic leadership within the context of national and liberation movements. It aims to offer valuable insights into historical trajectories and contemporary leadership contexts, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing struggle for social justice and human rights. Through meticulous examination and analysis, this research endeavors to contribute to the scholarly understanding of effective leadership strategies in navigating complex socio-political landscapes, ultimately aiming to enrich our knowledge of transformative leadership practices in the pursuit of societal change.