Gre analytical Writing issue essay Topic 101

GRE Analytical Writing ISSUE Essay Topic - 121 
"The study of history places too much emphasis on individuals. The most significant movements 
were made possible not by famous few, but by groups of people whose identities have been long 
been forgotten" 
GRE AWA Analytical Writing ISSUE Essay Sample 
Solution - 121 
History literally means the study of past. It give us details of past events, earlier civilizations, 
their trends, belief, activities as well as their achievements and failures which help us in 
understanding their culture, thereby relating it to the present. Along with this, history places 
importance on lives and accomplishments of eminent personalities, who made a difference in one 
way or the other. 
The issue whether people at large or individuals in particular deserve more emphasis in history is 
not debatable, as history is a blend of both. If on one hand Indus Valley civilization reveals the 
architectural knowledge and life style of people of Harappa culture, then on the other hand study 
of Gupta period not only tells us about the society in general, but also about the specific 
achievements of the rulers of Gupta empire. 
An individual is a part of society and his/her success in any of the fields, be it in politics, science, 
literature, sports, would not be possible without the role and influence of the society. None of the 
important events in history is merely caused by an individual. For instance in the history of 
India's struggle for independence from the British even the likes of Gandhi and Nehru could not 
have done much without the support of common men. It was the desire and participation of the 
whole of the nation that brought the revolution and gave India her freedom. Still names of 
Gandhi Nehru, Subhash, Azad, Sarojini Naidu, Lala Lajpat Rai are few that are mentioned above 
all which is quite justified keeping in mind their grit and determination. Though the role of 
common men can not be overlooked it was the extraordinary zeal and effort of these few men 
who motivated the rest towards independence. 
Likewise king Ashoka, a devout follower of Buddhism, is known to have established a golden 
era owing to peace and prosperity in his empire. One may question if it is right to credit Ashoka 
as an individual, instead of Buddhism-a religion followed by many. Ashoka's achievements are 
lamented in history because he utilized his power, resources and wisdom to the fullest. Under the 
influence of the religion, he not only gave a boost to the spread of Buddhism but also practiced 
religious tolerance. 
Similarly, there may be many such instances where more emphasis is laid upon a few individuals 
rather the larger group responsible for the cause. It is to be understood that these chosen few are 
highlighted because of their catalytic role played in the past. The few who took initiative, led and 
helped in accelerating the mass movements were the personalities whose lives, principles and 

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achievements can be a source of inspiration for others. It would not be a biased practice to 
highlight such individuals who were the faces in crowd and led lives worth emulating. Moreover, 
it is not feasible to keep a record and discuss each individual of a group. 
Analogously, each day as it passes becomes a part of history. However, not everyday and not 
every incident deserves a mention. Events that brought important changes and the men who were 
the driving force behind such activities are the ones who truly created history. Eventually the 
turning points produced either by sections of people or by individuals form history, without any 
bias. 

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