Introduction
A legacy is something that a person leaves behind after their passing, which continues to inspire and influence others long after they are gone. It can take the form of a physical object, like a piece of art or a written work, or it can be an action or achievement that leaves a lasting impact on the world. For many people, the most important legacy is the impact they have on their family and the values they pass down to future generations.
This article covers the various ways you can create a legacy that will endure beyond your lifetime. Are you ready to explore the many paths available to you? We present a range of strategies for crafting a legacy that will leave a lasting impact.
Table Of Contents
- Never Be Forgotten: Family
- The Military - Monarchy - Rulers - Dictators
- The Scientists - Inventors - Engineers
- Artists - Writers - Inventors - Designers
- The Entertainment Industry
- Musicians
- Sportsmen & Women
- Being the First
- Be The Best - The Top 10 - 50 - 100 - 500
- The Notorious - Gangsters - Villains
- From Ordinary to Extraordinary
- The Memorabilia - Awards - Accolades
- Being Erased From History
- Final Thoughts
- Top 6 Famous Legacy Quotes
- Poll: How Important Is Leaving a Legacy?
Never Be Forgotten: Family
Creating a lasting legacy is a challenging feat that requires considerable effort, forethought or luck. Most of us are too consumed with the present to ponder what we want to leave behind. But have you ever considered who your ancestors were, what they did for a living, or what they looked like? We are the legacies of those who came before us, bridging the gap between past and future generations.
Regrettably, much of their lives and who they were have been lost to history because, before the advent of photographic technology, memories could only be passed down orally (spoken stories), or through artwork. However, the wealthy and influential were able to commission skilled artists to paint their portraits, allowing future generations to remember them through these paintings.
Thankfully, photography has revolutionised the preservation of memories, allowing us to capture and safeguard faces and voices for future generations.
Families also pass down heirlooms like jewellery, furniture, and artwork that record how family members have evolved. Cultural traditions such as music, dance, and religious practices maintain a connection with one's heritage. Family stories and legends are also essential for preserving memories and creating a sense of identity and belonging. Skills and crafts passed down from generation to generation are another way to keep memories alive and create a lasting legacy.
Take some time to reflect on what values and experiences you want to pass down to future generations. Consider writing down your family history or recording video or audio messages for your descendants.
Share your skills and talents with younger family members, and encourage them to continue these traditions. Finally, be intentional about the objects you keep and pass down as heirlooms, as these can serve as tangible reminders of your family's history and evolution.
The Military - Monarchy - Rulers - Dictators
'Lest we forget; the legacies of the war heroes. These brave individuals fought for their countries and for causes they believed in, risking their lives on the front lines. Their names are often immortalised in history books and public monuments, ensuring that future generations will never forget their bravery and sacrifice.
And the monarchs and rulers. From the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt to the kings and queens of Europe, these figures left their mark on history through their actions and decisions. Some are remembered for their benevolence and contributions to society, while others are infamous for their cruelty and oppression.
Regardless of their reputations, these rulers played a significant role in shaping the world. In addition to war heroes and monarchs, political leaders have left their mark on history. These individuals asserted their power and influence to make lasting changes to their countries and the world. Leaders remembered for their speeches, policies, and actions that changed the course of history.
Finally, noteworthy figures from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Egyptians, these individuals left behind historical sites and artefacts that still captivate us today. Some may have used treacherous means to achieve notoriety, but their legacies endure, and their names are still remembered centuries later.
It is clear that history never forgets those who make a lasting impact through bravery, power, or innovation, They all remind us that we make a difference in the world and leave our legacies for future generations to admire.
Scientists - Physicists - Inventors - Engineers
Wars have often necessitated the development of advanced technologies, and this is where inventors, physicists, mechanics, and engineers come in. They work tirelessly to create the best weapons, submarines, and aircraft critical to winning battles. These professionals typically possess a genius mind, advanced degrees, and diplomas, which allow them to make significant contributions to society.
They all work hard to discover or achieve something, and while some succeed through years of hard work and resilience, others achieve success purely by accident. Regardless of how they do it, they are all remembered as historical figures who have left a lasting legacy.
For instance, having something named after you is one way of achieving recognition and leaving a legacy. Many commonly used words, such as Celsius and Fahrenheit, are named after their inventors. Another example is the famous Rubik's cube, which has become a household name and a symbol of intelligence and creativity.
On the other hand, some of history's most influential people used ink, paper, and their imagination to become authors of the greatest love and crime stories ever told. Poets and dramatists who shaped the English language are still known hundreds of years after their deaths. Their works inspire and educate generations, leaving an indelible mark on society.
Artists - Writers - Inventors - Designers
The world remembers great artists through their priceless works displayed in museums and the homes of the wealthy and famous. Artists contributions to society inspires others long after they have gone.
But for those not gifted in painting, you can create a popular new toy (Barbie), puzzle (cube), or game (Monopoly), and be part of history.
Innovation has been a constant in human history since the invention of the wheel. Invent something that transforms the way we live, or improve an existing invention to secure your place in history.
Fashion, industrial, and graphic designers also contribute to society. Their designs can have a significant impact on how we perceive the world. Like artists and inventors, designers must have a keen eye for detail, a strong sense of creativity, and the ability to think outside the box. They must also balance aesthetics with functionality and practicality, creating designs that serve a purpose. By leaving their mark in their respective fields, designers can inspire future generations and make a lasting impact on society.
Creating a legacy that lasts centuries requires innovation, creativity, and hard work. The artists, inventors, and designers of the past have all left their mark on society and continue to inspire generations.
Some trees can live for 100 to over 5,000 years, but carving your name into a tree, a wall, or elsewhere won’t truly reflect who you are. These marks may not last—a tree might be felled, or a wall demolished. While they might ensure you’re remembered for a time, they only capture your name, not the depth of your character or the impact you’ve made, if any.
The Entertainment Industry
Actors have the ability to bring historical figures to life through biopics, and to dramatise the lives of other actors. Just one starring role in an iconic TV show, program, or film, actors can leave a lasting legacy. The stars of "Harry Potter" and the original "Wizard of Oz" are etched in our memories forever.
Entertainment Industry
Films and TV shows are a collaborative effort between writers, producers, directors, screenwriters, conductors, and orchestras. Together, they create the magic and believability of the film, transporting us into make-believe worlds and documenting the lives of past generations.
The memories from the entertainment industry are etched into our minds and available for future generations to enjoy long after an actor's death. As well as legacies, famous people can make money long after their death through royalties, which are payments made to the owner of a copyrighted work for each use or sale and priceless gift for family members.
The best way for an actor to create a lasting legacy is to secure a role in a high-grossing film franchise or to have the lead role in an iconic film, such as a superhero, Doctor Who, or James Bond. For those who cannot secure these lead roles, appearing in many TV shows, soaps, comedies, and TV series (the prolific actors) can also contribute to a legacy. Even appearing in one iconic scene can be enough to be remembered for years.
Kudos to the daredevils who push the limits of human endurance by performing dangerous and death-defying stunts. Or, high-wire walkers who risk their lives suspended hundreds of meters above the ground without a harness. To this day, people are still attempting to set new world records. To outperform them, one must have a combination of physical agility, strength, coordination, endurance, and courage.
From the funniest entertainers and comedians in the world who have made us laugh and cry, to the amazing magicians who leave us bewildered with their amazing magical tricks. Imagine generations of your family, strangers, and even famous people enjoying your work and having your name in lights or as a star on the Walk of Fame.
Great entertainers and actors are individuals with a dream, desire, or hope to become someone. That person could be you, and today is the day to start doing something to be remembered for decades and potentially centuries.
Musicians
For a musician, having one of their songs sung by anyone, let alone a great actor in a film scene or film's soundtrack - or played frequently on the radio, is a tremendous accolade.
Musicians
Influential music style icons who 'sang in the rain', 'danced on the ceiling' and 'swung on a chandelier' continue to inspire us with their timeless, memorable songs by singers who left their legacies using their voices.
Unfortunately, not every singer from history can be seen or heard as they sang before the invention of recording devices.
Some artists become more famous after dying young. However, success in the music industry does not always rely on musical talent alone. Some performers may not possess strong singing abilities but have the right look and appearance to be part of a band or group. Even so, they have all made their mark on society and the music industry.
Being an exceptional singer or having a brilliant song is inconsequential without the backing of a well-known producer and record label to bring its lyrics to life. The thought of the world singing your songs for decades or even centuries is a reward for succeeding as an artist, lyricist or music producer.
Even a one-hit song is sufficient to create a lasting legacy, such as a timeless Christmas carol.
In today's digital age, many individuals have gained widespread popularity as social media influencers by singing, promoting, educating and entertaining their followers on various platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. All it takes is a computer, an internet connection, and your talent to leave a legacy, all from the comfort of your own home.
Sportsmen & Women
Historical records have documented the successes of athletes across all disciplines, from track and field to the boxing ring, from snooker tables to sumo dohyōs. But athleticism and stamina aren't always necessary to make a name for oneself in sports. Precision is the hallmark of legends in darts, golf, and snooker, while driving at world-class speeds requires bravery, commitment, and speed.
Sportsmen & Women
No record is unbreakable. All it takes is to be a millisecond faster or a millimetre's extra height or distance. Some records have stood for decades, cementing the names of those who set them into the public consciousness. But not everyone who has competed has achieved greatness. Some athletes have been beaten by better opponents, while others simply lacked the focus, resilience, and dedication necessary to succeed.
For those who have the physical strength, stamina, and speed to float like a butterfly and sting like a bee. Or to throw, hit, or kick with precision, the rewards can be immense. Hard work, perseverance, and even tears can help create a legacy that inspires others to follow in your footsteps. And by becoming one of the greatest sports stars of all time, you can leave a lasting impact on the world of sport.
Being the First
Being the first to achieve a landmark feat is widely acknowledged and remembered. This includes the first athlete to win a gold medal for their country in a particular sport, women who break barriers and succeed in male-dominated fields.
Being the First
It is not only the first person to conquer Mount Everest, swim the English Channel, or step on the moon that leaves a lasting legacy, as there are always new challenges to overcome. Someone doesn't have to be Michael Jackson to do the "moonwalk" on the actual moon if they become an astronaut.
Historical figures such as the first person to break the sound barrier and the surgeon who performed the first successful human-to-human heart transplant are remembered for their groundbreaking achievements. The world has already seen the first black President of the United States. Who will be next? - the first black female President?, or the first black female Indian, Chinese or British Prime Minister?
In the digital age, anyone with a social media presence can leave a lasting impact, like the first person to reach one million or even one billion views or followers. The race is on for who will become the first to achieve one trillion or even quadrillion views or followers on a social media platform.
One day, the cryogenic revival of someone who has passed away may make them instantaneously famous. Even if someone is alive today and has their body cryogenically frozen, they will likely achieve fame when they miraculously brought back to life.
Who will be the first to discover a cure for lung or heart cancer? Or set foot on planet Mars? A legacy and a place in history books await whoever rises to these challenges.
Be The Best - The Top 10 - 50 - 100 - 500
Everyone has their own views on who they believe is the best at any given thing. That's why lists compiled from surveys, reviews, polls, and the number of books written about them, as well as the number of internet searches, contribute to who is considered the best at that moment in time.
Be The Best - The Top 10 - 50 - 100 - 500.
Being featured in any of the world's top ten lists is a remarkable accomplishment, and there are lists for every genre and in every country. However, not all lists are as glamorous, especially when ranked and remembered as one of the "most infamous douchebags" or as one of the "most hated celebrities in history". Nevertheless, many famous individuals have become even more famous by reinventing themselves and switching careers.
It's not just the famous who leave a lasting legacy. Contestants on reality TV shows and talent competitions have become overnight successes through their astonishing or shocking performances that are hard to forget. Even if they never achieve anything else, they will have left a lasting impression, for better or worse.
Here are some examples of top 10 lists:
Top 10 Most Famous People Ever. List of Famous Scientists. Most Viewed YouTube Channels of All Time. 50 Greatest Songs Of All Time. Top 10 Famous Country Singers. 10 Greatest Rock Singers of All Time. Top 10 Male/Female Singers. Top Outrageous Music Fashion Icons. The top 10 Richest Actors in the World.
Actors not recognised as the 'Best Actors' will have other opportunities for recognition, such as being listed as the best 'Comedy,' 'Villain,' or 'Horror' film actor. The more lists an actor appears on, the greater the chance for longevity, which is essential for maintaining and preserving their legacy.
Conversely, being listed as one of history's most notorious gangsters and villains is not a desirable distinction.
The Notorious - Gangsters - Villains
Creating a lasting legacy is a complex and multi-faceted process that requires consideration of one's actions and reputation. While on-screen villains and criminals may be memorable and even loved or hated by audiences, replicating their evil deeds in real life is never recommended. Society tends to remember the most notorious criminals and gangsters long after their deaths.
The Infamous - Gangsters - Villains
Examples from history include notorious figures like outlaws, pirates, and even failed terrorists like Guy Fawkes. However, their legacy is often remembered as one of the worst to leave behind.
Throughout history, people used fear to fulfil their reign of terror In the bloodiest and most brutal ways. Gangsters and villains of every era. From the notorious outlaws of the wild west to the infamous pirates who roved the waves of the high seas to rob and steal. Today, we remember them by dressing up as cowboys, gangsters and pirates for fun.
However, it is uncertain how future generations will view these figures, as societal attitudes and values can change over time. Similarly, celebrities celebrated for their talents and accomplishments can become infamous due to scandals and shocking crimes. It is also advisable to consider the potential long-term impact of one's actions when striving to create a long-lasting legacy.
What villains of today will we be celebrating in another ten, a hundred, or five hundred years? Will we still celebrate Guy Fawkes every year? Or dress as pirates at fancy dress parties, or pretend to be terrorists, covered in fake body explosives? Who knows how fickle future generations will be?
Society still admires and remembers the most notorious criminals long after their deaths. Those who made their names through protection rackets, armed robbery, and murder are always on television.
Celebrities previously remembered for their talents and accomplishments have become infamous for their involvement in scandalous events, including rape and sexual molestation. Others have resorted to murder and other shocking crimes, which the public will always find fascinating.
From Ordinary to Extraordinary
It was ordinary people who did extraordinary things to change history. Those who devoted their lives to fighting for justice never imagined the legacy they would leave. We must never forget the many suffragettes who fought for women's right to vote. Nor the African-American seamstress who stood up for her rights when she refused to give up her seat on a bus reserved for white people that helped start the civil rights movement in the US. We will never forget the famous activists who were silenced by years of imprisonment.
Those who devote their lives to fighting for justice never imagined the legacies they would leave. Who will be among the next individuals to make a significant impact and shape the world's future?
From ordinary to extraordinary in some weird and bizarre ways
An industry devoted to preserving "The Guinness Book of World Records" keeps people's names alive. If you can throw a paper plane farther than anyone else, you may become a world record-breaker.
The most extraordinary, yet unfortunate way to be remembered is to be born with severe physical abnormalities, like the Elephant Man, or as a conjoined twin, particularly one of the most well-known conjoined twins. I will never forget any of these examples.
Becoming an overnight success can be as simple as writing six numbers on a piece of paper and winning the largest lottery jackpot ever won by a single ticket in history with my name splashed across every media outlet.
The Memorabilia - Awards - Accolades
When the film, radio, or TV goes quiet, and the sports games come to an end, it's the tangible objects in our daily lives that preserve people's memories and legacies. Memorabilia that have sentimental value because they are associated with some historical event or person.
The Memorabilia - Awards - Accolades
Museums and people's homes display these items to keep people in sight and mind and give us a surprising insight into wartime propaganda, daring missions behind enemy lines, and stories of extraordinary heroism.
From colossal statues erected around the world to sculptures, waxworks, and artwork. Dolls or action figures crafted in the likeness of someone famous. Owning or using an item belonging to a famous person can be worth more than its weight in gold, and any related to famous people are coveted by many who wish to own, see, or touch them.
I overheard a comment on an antiques' roadshow TV programme: which showed me how important, heirlooms, as well as memorabilia are so important; "When I put on my late father's gloves, I feel as though I am holding his hand". That is how potent the items handed down to next generations can be.
As I look around me, I realise that nothing I own is valuable. My chairs, the desk and computer I'm using to type this are all worthless. However, if I were to become famous overnight, these items would become valuable and perhaps even priceless.
Being Erased From History
I began this article on 'families' and family trees, but like many trees, branches die out. Not everyone will have children. And if they do, their child may not continue the family line, making it more challenging to create memories and legacies.
Being Erased From History
As time passes, the memories of many families will inevitably fade away. Tales and stories will go untold, and heirlooms may be lost or destroyed in fires, stolen for greed, or sold out of necessity, erasing the memories of their owners.
Fire has decimated much of our history, but archaeologists continue to uncover ancient history, giving voice to people who could never have imagined they would be famous thousands of years after their death. Scientists recently unearthed the face of a 7,500-year-old woman from Turkey. And bones (they named 'Omo 1') found in Ethiopia have been estimated to be around 233,000 years old.
Advances in technology have changed the way we store and view our digital media, including pictures and videos of our loved ones. However, these old formats may become obsolete and forgotten if future generations do not take the time to convert them to newer ones.
The monuments and statues built to honour famous people may also face destruction in future wars or conflicts. Or they may be intentionally demolished as symbols of cultural or political transformation. It is uncertain what future generations may find offensive and choose to erase from history.
Sportspeople exposed as drug cheats will be shamed and embarrassed, something they may wish for people and history to forget.
Creating a legacy that lasts for centuries requires hard work and or luck, so never put all your eggs in one basket, do things extraordinary and become an icon worth remembering and talking about for generations.
Final Thoughts
As an orphan with no family or children (thus far), I understand the fear of being forgotten. But I refuse to accept it. Instead, I see this article as my legacy, a piece of myself that will endure long after I'm gone.
Perhaps I may never achieve fame or fortune or win the biggest lottery prize, but I can still strive to make an impact, to do something worth remembering.
But to truly leave a legacy that will stand the test of time, we must strive to be more than just celebrities. We must become icons, shining beacons of hope and inspiration for generations. It takes hard work, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to our passions, but the reward is a legacy that will endure for centuries.
So let us not be content with mere "15 minutes of fame". Let us strive to be remembered for centuries, to be remembered as heroes, as innovators, as game-changers. Let us leave behind a legacy worth remembering, a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
To be remembered through the ages, don't settle for fame alone. Aim to be an icon — a shining star with a lasting impact, leaving a bright legacy for generations to come.
Famous Legacy Quotes
- "Your parents already feel they have a great legacy—their children. And that legacy is something you can carry on for them."
- "Legacy is not what I did for myself. It's what I'm doing for the next generation."—Vito Belfort.
- “A lot of legends, a lot of people, have come before me. But this is my time.”—Usain Bolt.
- "Creating legacies is not just about being first. It's being the best"—Tony Sky.
- "I don't fight for the money. I fight for my legacy. I fight for history. I fight for my people"—Khabib Nurmagomedov.
- “If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.”—Benjamin Franklin.
How Important Is Leaving a Legacy?
- 83% Very important
- 17% Not very important
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