Qualities: ARIEL SHARON

Ariel Sharon was the greatest military leader in a world of incessant small wars since World War II. And few generals in history took political command so decisively. He was not perfect, but no other Israeli was more responsible for bringing Israel through all its perils on the brink of destruction to its present opportunity for peace through strength.

Love him or hate him, Sharon personified the great achievement qualities on our list of 200. Who else in combination and effect has shown such courage, determination, leadership, patriotism and vision? But, like almost all great leaders, he has that fatal flaw that brings tragedy: Sharon failed in the one quality that counts the most: Health. Since he became prime minister, I wondered why he was still alive, unwilling to lose the weight and diet that are ending his life. The great confidence and physical strength that drove him apparently also gave him a self-destructive feeling of invincibility. So, like many great leaders, he has no succssor. Unless there is a surprise, only Netanyahu has the experience to do what needs to be done.

Hundreds of millions of Arabs still surround seven million Israelis and seek their destruction. One day Israel may not have a great leader or a great ally to defend it. As always in the world, the key personal qualities of a few people can achieve miraculous things, and their weaknesses can detroy them. So it is in our own small lives.