Albert Einstein
Source: Twitter @brainpickings
It’s no surprise that a genius is going to have some social quirks. When it comes to Einstein, one of the greatest minds of modern times, it turns out he had some very peculiar—and indeed, cruel—rules for his first wife Mileva Maric that he forced her to abide by if she wished to remain married.
Among his misogynistic list of demands were that she always do his laundry and serve him three meals in his room, that she not expect to travel with him or be seen with him in public unless necessary, that she not expect an intimate relationship with him, and that she be obedient to him in front of their children. Sheesh!
Ranking: Awkward AF
Andrew Jackson
Source: wikipedia.org
You probably have his portrait in your wallet as you read this, but you might reconsider who we adorn the $20 bill with after learning some more about Andrew Jackson. War hero, president, the reason why Florida belongs to the US, and the inspiration for today’s Democratic Party, Jackson did his fair share of good things. He was, however, a hothead who constantly engaged in duels for reasons of pride, and he started the “spoils system” in American government, which has since resulted in immeasurable corruption. Lest we forget that this slave owning president was almost singlehandedly responsible for the American policy of Indian removal, mainly of Native American tribes from the South, resulting in the Trail of Tears and the death of thousands of native peoples.
Ranking: Just Awful
Gandhi
Source: wikipedia.org
Without a doubt, Gandhi is one of the most important civil rights leaders in history. It’s difficult to accept that even some of the brightest, purest figures we study and learn to deeply admire also have their darker sides.
Though he made a vow of celibacy in his 30s, Gandhi often tested his moral strength and chasteness by sleeping next to naked women, including his nieces and young girls. Some historians and even some of his contemporaries cite Gandhi as being a celibate sex maniac, although the Mahatma’s writings explain his bizarre practices as the ultimate tests of his faith. What do you think?
Ranking: Questionable