History Makers - Cult Leaders
#1 in British history makers Series
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
This is part of the 'History Makers' series, which offers students insight into the lives and personalities of important figures who share a common vocation, cause or calling. The series spans ancient to modern times and represents areas of endeavor ranging from art and science to politics and popular culture. This volume profiles the lives and unusual teachings of six charismatic cult leaders: Mother Ann Lee, Father Divine, L. Ron Hubbard, Sun Myung Moon, Jim Jones and David Koresh. At the heart of every cult is a convincing, charismatic leader. These leaders often exert firm control over the lives of their followers; some have claimed to possess special powers.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated these leaders to start a movement?
How did the people around them react to their ideas?
Can you think of any positive or negative consequences of following a leader without question?
What qualities would you look for in a leader you chose to follow?
How can we learn from the past to improve how we make decisions today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on leadership and its importance in society.
Encourage your child to express their ideas and feelings about the book, even if they differ from yours.
Use examples from current events or personal experiences to connect the book's themes to real life.
Guide the discussion towards critical thinking by asking your child to compare and contrast different leaders mentioned in the book.
Reinforce the idea that it's okay to question authority and the importance of forming one's own opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: The book uses historical accounts of various cult leaders to illustrate how they manipulated facts and people's emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to question information critically and not accept everything at face value, helping them make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Understanding the influence of charismatic leadership
Explanation: Through narratives about cult leaders, the book showcases how charisma can be used to influence people, sometimes negatively.
Real-World Application: Kids can recognize the characteristics of healthy versus manipulative leadership, aiding them in choosing positive role models.
Example Lesson: The significance of community and belonging
Explanation: The book discusses how cult leaders often provide a sense of community to attract followers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of being part of community groups that foster positive and inclusive environments.
Example Lesson: Learning from history to make better future decisions
Explanation: By analyzing the rise and fall of cult leaders, the book emphasizes the consequences of history repeating itself.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of learning from past mistakes, both their own and those of others.
Example Lesson: The power of persuasion and rhetoric
Explanation: The narrative explores how cult leaders use persuasive language to appeal to and manipulate their followers.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught to discern persuasive tactics and develop resistance to undue influence, enhancing their personal autonomy.