American Leadership - an example from history
After his speech, he drew a line in the sand with his sword and asked, “I now want every man who is determined to stay here and die with me to come across this line.” All but one soldier crossed that line in the sand.
This is an example from history of great American leadership in action. Travis did not willingly or knowingly deceive his men about help - he did let them know that he had requested it. But some may have felt he had deceived them to keep them from running away, so he accepted the blame for that. He told his followers the real deal, he didn’t hide the truth from them.
That is what a good leader does - if it’s perceived that you made a mistake or actually made a mistake, own up to it and let your people know. Always share the true picture with your people so they can make informed decisions. Travis’ speech was true, for within 3 days he and his men gave their lives at the Alamo.
Gregory
March 29th, 2009 at 8:49 am #
Great story and thank you for sharing it!
We all know the outcome of the Alamo and can spend our time second guessing even the best of leaders. William Travis did not have the benefit of knowing and made decisions based on his own life experiences.
William Travis knowingly or unknowingly created the reason for his men to follow. The reason in this situation was the same used when a coach goes into half time down by so much it would be a miracle to pull the win out. But William Travis created the belief that just maybe a miracle was possible.
He may have never once said or used the term win, but indirectly he was screaming out that it was possible. Just the idea that he was standing on the other side of the line inviting his men over, created that belief.
Certainly his leadership to that point made it possible to bring them across the line. For without the past he would have been standing alone.
I spent a significant number of years in the Marine Corps and I know this feeling. I know that you can face a situation that seems impossible to all those around you, but somehow you dig deep within yourself and create the driving force to face your giants. David faced Goliath when all those around knew of his certain death, but David proved them wrong.
The men at the Alamo were true men, who believed in themselves, their leader, and the cause they were there for. They ultimately gave their lives, but I believe they felt they would overcome the odds.
Just like William Travis, leaders create the reason to move forward and not run.
Gregory at Leadership Skills for Life