From the infamous to the insane, we have a run-down of quirks of 8
avowed leaders. It takes a particular personality type run for
democratic election or even take over a country. And while being the
boss of an entire state can be quite an ego trip, it also puts
idiosyncrasies, obsessions and OCDs under a magnifying lens. It also
puts these figures into the position of taking their whims and
compulsions to a whole new level. These figures have frequently started
out with humble beginnings, only to rise to the top of the pile, fueled
by the desire to leave their imprint on their country and history at
large. In many cases, these figures seek power and recognition,
fostering a cult of personality, which gives them god-like attributes in
the eyes of their people.
#9 Berlusconi
photo: dealbreaker.com
The 78-year old three-time Italian Prime Minister, business magnate
and media tycoon suffered a rather unceremonious fall from Grace in 2013
when he was found guilty of paying for sex with an underage prostitute
and abusing his office. The Media Set and AC Milan owner, has long been
reputed to have connections with the Italian Mafia and other unsavory
characters. His love of beautiful women and penchant for mixing with the
jet set drove him to regularly organize parties in his mansion outside
of Milan, where it was rumored that up to 20 girls would engage in Bunga
Bunga African-style rituals in the nude. Claims have emerged that il
Cavaliere (as he is known) has paid a cool USD$ 5 million to Moroccan
belly dancer and alleged prostitute Karima El Mahroug (a.k.a Ruby
Rubacuori), for her services at his parties. While his conviction has
been overturned, Berlusconi is more likely to be remembered for his
Bunga Bunga parties than for being the longest-serving post-war Italian
premier.