Slideshows

The 10 worst tyrant leaders in history

Be Interactive

2024-01-05 08:43:23

King Attila the Hun was a most feared enemy. Under his influence, his barbarian warriors perpetuated crimes and punishments.

9. Maximilien de Robespierre (1758-1794)

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Maximilien de Robespierre, a controversial figure of the French Revolution, was behind the "Great Terror" that claimed the lives of nearly 40,000 people.

8. Ruhollah Khomeini (1902-1989)

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Ayatollah Khomeini was Iran's religious leader from 1979 to 1989. He established the Sharia. During his reign, 30,000 political prisoners were executed.

7. Idi Amin Dada (1923-2003)

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President of Uganda, Idi Amin Dada was a dictator. It is estimated that up to 500,000 people lost their lives during his presidency.

6. Leopold II (1835-1909)

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Leopold II, King of Belgium (1865-1909), created the independent state of Congo. In the ensuing looting, three million Congolese died.

5. Pol Pot (1925-1998)

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Leader of the Khmer Rouge and dictator of Cambodia, Pol Pot mistreated his people, who suffered from malnutrition. Two million people are thought to have died.

4. Vlad III the Impaler (1431-1476)

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Vlad III the Impaler was Prince of Wallachia. He was renowned for his cruel punishments. History records that he had his victims impaled.

3. Ivan the Terrible (1530-1584)

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Ivan the Terrible was Grand Prince of Moscow and Tsar of Russia. He is known for his brutal methods, which led to the execution of thousands of people.