General Yi's Influences In History

A lesson that all admirable historical figures teaches us is from their well-sculpted characteristics. The name of the undefeatable General Yi Soon-shin carried a heavy weight, his enemies trembling just upon hearing it. I believe that his three greatest characteristics that enabled him to leave a great influence in history are perseverance, morality, and compassion. Perseverance was a trait through which Yi’s character began to develop. His young actions and habits revealed his hardworking nature. At an early age, Yi found his passion for military tactics and took the commanding role in his war games with his peers. By age 28, he prepared to take the nation’s highest military exam, the Kwago National Military Exam. However, a mishap occurred

In the midst of the corruption and strife to increase individual power, Yi exemplified morality and worked towards the collective good of the whole. Yi’s strong ethics and virtue resulted in conflicts between his presiding officers, who indulged in corrupt means, such as promotions based on friendships. Yi chose not to take part in this tradition by judging all applicants based on merits, not relationships or friendships. He did not grant permission to abuse the use of government property and assets. As a result, Yi was disfavored by his fellow and senior officers, while he earned the respect of his subordinates. This showed that Yi was determined to keep his virtues in the face of

It is very easy to be swept away by the “trends” or the inclinations that the world favors. Thus, it is even more important to value one’s beliefs and ideas to retain the uniqueness that all were born with. Self-confidence is important for any success and acts as a foundation for character. In Yi’s life, it was evident that Yi had self-confidence. Although everyone else did not believe that war with Japan was imminent, Yi began to prepare for the battle. Within this preparation, he repaired all weapons and began to build the first revolutionary ironclad turtle ship: “Geobukseon”. He had a long-term viewpoint on life and prepared for the far battle in hopes to protect his country and people from harm. While others mocked at his initiative, Yi withheld his confidence and later proved to successfully defend the country’s