The Guardian Launches Reader Inquiry on Which Historical Leader the World Needs Today

Quick Brief
The Guardian has opened a public call for reader responses addressing global instability through a historical lens. Participants are asked to nominate a past leader to address modern crises like climate change, nationalism, and technological threats.
What Happened?
In its ongoing reader-driven question-and-answer series, a reader named Bernard from Machynlleth posed a query regarding contemporary global turmoil and existential threats. Prompted by issues such as geopolitical conflict, the climate crisis, and risks from artificial intelligence, the series asks the public to select a historical leader to bring into the present day and explain their reasoning.
Why It Matters
The prompt reflects growing public anxiety over modern leadership capabilities in the face of compounding global challenges. It utilizes crowdsourced philosophical and political reflection to gauge public sentiment on effective governance.
Key Facts
- The inquiry is part of The Guardian's regular reader-to-reader Q&A series.
- The question was submitted by a reader named Bernard based in Machynlleth.
- Nominations are being collected via online comments and direct email submissions.
- A curated selection of the responses is scheduled to be published the following Sunday.
What Happens Next?
A selection of reader replies will be published next Sunday by the publication.
Compiled from 1 outlet
Related Stories

Hasan Minhaj Reflects on Integrating Joy into Difficult Stories
Comedian Hasan Minhaj has opened up about his early life and career trajectory. Reflecting on his upbringing, he shared that his father previously advised him to keep his Muslim heritage separate from his professional ambitions.

Star Trek Approaches 60th Anniversary Amid Growing Concerns Over Real-World Space Weaponization
As the iconic science-fiction franchise Star Trek approaches its 60th anniversary, commentators reflect on how its hopeful vision of humanity's future contrasts with current geopolitical developments. Specifically, recent moves by the United States to deploy weaponry in space represent a step away from the optimistic ideals portrayed on screen.

Competitors Gather in Mayfair for the English Oyster Shucking Championship
Competitors gathered beneath festive bunting in London's Mayfair district for the finals of the English oyster shucking championship. The event, judged by actor Stanley Tucci, highlights a tradition of eating oysters in England dating back thousands of years.
Daily Astrological Forecasts Published for September 20, 2026
Various publications released their daily astrological forecasts and horoscopes for Sunday, September 20, 2026. Major outlets and syndications, including the Chicago Sun-Times and USA Today, provided daily guidance for readers. Astrologers such as Georgia Nicols also offered their specific insights for the date.