What does being a formidable leader mean? According to a famous American statesman named John Quincy Adam “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader”. Many ancient kings and rulers were formidable leaders. A leader also means to inspire and direct others to greatness. Pericles of Athens and Leonidas of Sparta are both phenomenal leaders. They are both similar and different in many ways. However, in my opinion, Leonidas is the superior choice. This is because Leonidas shows more qualities that a formidable leader should have. This can be proven by looking at their actions while alive, comparing them, contrasting them, looking at their accomplishments and their impact on ancient society.