"Men make history, and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better" (Harry S Truman). Glory, a moving film about the first group of black soldiers to fight for the Union Army, and The Killer Angels, Michael Shaara's novel regarding the historic battle of Gettysburg, both show how the passion, courage, and honor that we witness from the soldiers could not have taken place without leadership. Although it takes the courage of many men to bring about change in society, the most crucial and fundamental part of any revolution is the people who lead it.

In his award-winning film, Edward Zwick shows the growth of his main character, Robert Shaw, into a leader. When Shaw acquired his black regiment he was not a leader, and at...