11 Facts About Presidents

Presidents (credit: apsce)

Presidents are frequently portrayed as having sharp suits, strict regulations, and significant expressions. We often envision them as stereotypical individuals in luxurious offices making crucial choices. However, if you go a little deeper, you will discover narratives that are as unusual, unforeseen, and occasionally humorous as they are moody. I would prefer that somebody had given me an overview like this earlier because that is precisely what I found after spending a long time exploring the internet. These presidential facts provide a completely different perspective on how power, customs, and personalities manifest at the most powerful phases, in addition to demonstrating the diversity of leadership between nations. A few facts simply pure strange, while others are depressing or unique. Therefore, these 11 facts may permanently change your perception of presidents, regardless of whether you are a politics expert or simply enjoy surprising knowledge.

1. Presidents of North Korea Can Rule After Death: Even after Kim Il-Sung passed away in 1994, North Korea continued to move forward despite the setback. He was proclaimed "Eternal President," a designation he currently and formally maintains. Envision HR informing you they are still officially in control even if your superior passes away. This action is more than merely ceremonial; it maintained the founder's reputation as an embodiment of national identity and strengthened the Kim family's hold on power.

2. Presidents of Switzerland Change Annually: Switzerland does not become overly connected to its president compared to many other nations do. A seven-member council alternates in the position each year. Think of it as musical chairs for presidents. The Swiss principle of decentralized authority and joint accountability is reflected in this. Although it may be a little detached, it is effective and definitely prevents any long-term egocentric crises.

3. Presidents of The Maldives Have Held Underwater Cabinet Meetings: Scuba equipment and everything, President Mohamed Nasheed and his cabinet met underwater in 2009. The reason being to draw attention to his shallow island nation's vulnerability to environmental changes. Yes, it was an adorable photo, however it also carried an important statement: the Maldives could eventually be totally flooded if the rise of the seas continued.

4. Presidents of The United States Have Used Foreign Languages For Privacy: Envision abruptly transitioning to Mandarin while having a private conversation at home to avoid being overheard. United States President Herbert Hoover and his spouse did just that. Both of them were proficient in Mandarin Chinese, which they implemented whenever they did not want curious listeners to hear. Concealed language as a security technique for a the lovers? It is a good concept.

5. Presidents of Finland Approve Military Leave: In Finland, the president individually approves conscripts' military leave in addition to posing for pictures with the troops. The intimate connection between the Finnish president and national security is demonstrated by this duty, which is not merely celebration. A few leaders currently make use of this type of compassion, practical governance.

6. Presidents of Mexico Cannot Be Re-Elected: Mexico's presidents only have one chance. There will be no exemptions or re-elections during their six-year obligation. Following years of political chaos, this "sexenio" regulation was put in place to avoid absolute authority. Although it is a strict requirement, it guarantees responsibility and changeover. What if additional nations did the same? Term-stretching leaders, farewell eternally.

7. Presidents of Germany Are Elected Indirectly: Yes, the people of Germany do not directly elect their presidents. Instead, the appeal is put forward by a special federal convention composed of citizens and politicians selected by state parliaments. This election through indirect means represents that toned-down power, as the president's job there is primarily festive. It is democracy with a protective coating.

8. Presidents in Equatorial Guinea Have Been Only Two Since Independence in 1968: Equatorial Guinea has experienced just two presidents following getting independence in 1968. That is a representation of firmly established leadership rather than an indication of steadiness. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo is the present-day president, having held the office since 1979. More royalty than republic, it is considered to be one of the longest-running presidencies in history.

9. Presidents of Argentina Have Faced Legal Challenges in Office: The previous president of Argentina, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, was being investigated for corruption while she was still in power. Talk about performing multiple tasks. Now that she is again in government as vice president, she continues to remain fully engaged in politics and is facing numerous judicial actions. It begs the inquiry: how can a country operate when its most important leaders also happen to be frequent visitors to the courtroom?

10. Presidents of Russia Have Circumvented Term Limits: In reality, Vladimir Putin only twisted the rules rather than breaking them. He served two terms in a row, first as prime minister and then as president again. In Russia, term restrictions were enforced on terms that occurred repeatedly rather than overall terms. Putin followed through with an alternative route and returned immediately, which opponents claim rendered the term limit law essentially useless.

11. Presidents of Indonesia Can Come from Humble Origins: "Jokowi," often known as Joko Widodo, was not a politician by birth. Prior to joining the administration, he operated a modest furniture company. Not all presidents are born to be in positions of authority, as seen by his rise, which is a unique narrative of modest origins that eventually led to success. The majority of Indonesians can relate to him because of his origins, and he represents what can be accomplished irrespective of political family dynasties.

Summary: Presidents Are Human Beings, & Policies Are Only One Aspect of Their Lives

It is simple to think of presidents as firm, unapproachable individuals who have been shaped by politics. However, these narratives demonstrate how unusual, human, as well as unbelievable their abilities and trajectories may be. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership, whether it is selling furniture or reigning after passing away, or holding scuba meetings or having private Mandarin conversations. Furthermore, that might be something to celebrate. The unique aspects serve as an indicator that even the most powerful people are influenced by their surroundings, society, and occasionally their own ego. Each president has a backstory that is likely stranger than you could imagine. Keep this in mind the following moment you reflect on presidents.