The Energon Pub

I know in the Comics / Cartoons section, there's a running thread on "Greatest Leader of All Time," and seeing some of the responses there has lead me to an altogether not-so-unexpected conclusion:

Optimus Prime might be the most influential character in the (relatively short) history of the Transformers. Not so much on the story itself...but on the lives of those who spent a part of childhood watching the 80s cartoon or reading the old Marvel books. No doubt many of us who grew up watching that cartoon saw in Prime a hero unlike most of the Saturday-morning fare: compassionate, almost to a fault; willing to fight, but only when there was no other option; and humble, despite his abilities as a leader and a warrior. It even seems like, more than any other cartoon character ever, Optimus has served as an outstanding example of honor, compassion, and justice for many people, to the point where a brave young man felt it necessary to change his name and enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces, to honor Prime and follow his example. Optimus was, and still is for some, the greatest hero ever created, and an embodiment of those qualities for which all people hope to strive.

And I was curious...even if you don't share the same sentiment, is this at least a somewhat-accurate description of Prime's role? Is it possible for one figure in pop culture to embody such high ideals? Or am I just reading too much into a very passionate fanbase at a somewhat-late hour?

Hear, hear! The world needs more people like him. Then maybe there would be fewer wars.

Born into an interesting world.Optimus is one of my mentors in
ways of life. Know the ways of the negative ones,just don't be that way. Kinda a comic character myself. Like to create,as many. Entertain,spread some joy. Almost hitting 40,kids are well. They've always seen dad as,sometimes take a hit and forget it. Harder to be good in life,but you make no negatives and have have a peaceful life. Kinda been tromped when I was younger. Sometimes good guys only appear as bad guys. Nice
to share a peaceful place.

BRAWL BECAUSE KICKS ASS!

I agree with Prime being the most influential. Prime is what every real man should strive to be: A leader who wouldn't send any of his men to do something that he himself wouldn't do, powerful but compassionate, intellegent but warm, etc., a "Gentle Giant" so to speak.

Prime is like a combination of Shakespeare and Aristotle, fluid, poetic, confident, but strong, wise, demanding, and pragmatic at the same time.

Optimus Prime, Captain America, Superman & Uncle Sam!!

Brawn - strength of arm and character in small package
Prowl - Bravery and Tactics
Soundwave - Logic, Loyalty & Versatility
Bumblebee - Tenacity
Ratchet - coolness under fire
Ironhide - Wisdom
Jetfire - Science = Superiority
Grimlock - Ferocity nad Brute Force in the service of Good.