Every year, Time magazine honors a person, group, or even an object that has significantly impacted the world, naming them the Person of the Year. This title is not merely an accolade but a recognition of the individuals or entities that have shaped both the news and our lives, reflecting what was most important throughout the year. The former managing editor of Time, Walter Isaacson, articulated this sentiment back in 1998, stating that the chosen figure embodies the highs and lows of the year, influencing our lives for better or worse.
Since its inception in 1928, the Person of the Year title has evolved from "Man of the Year" to a more inclusive designation, allowing for recognition of all genders and identities since 1999. This transition reflects broader societal changes and the magazine's commitment to relevance in an ever-changing world. As we celebrate Taylor Swift's recognition in 2023, let's take a moment to revisit the impactful individuals and groups that have been honored over the last decade.
This retrospective not only highlights the significant cultural and political influences of our time but also showcases the resilience and dynamism of those who have shaped the narratives of their respective years. From political leaders to activists, each honoree has left an indelible mark on the world stage. Join us as we explore the stories and contributions of these remarkable figures.
Table of Contents
- 2012: Barack Obama
- 2013: Pope Francis
- 2014: Ebola Fighters
- 2015: Angela Merkel
- 2016: Donald Trump
- 2017: The Silence Breakers
- 2018: The Guardians
- 2019: Greta Thunberg
- 2020: Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
- 2021: Elon Musk
- 2022: Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- 2023: Taylor Swift
2012: Barack Obama
Shortly after being reelected for his second term, President Barack Obama was named Time’s 2012 Person of the Year. It marked a historic recognition for the former president, who had previously received this title in 2008.
“We are in the midst of historic cultural and demographic changes, and Obama is both the symbol and in some ways the architect of this new America,” noted Time editor Rick Stengel.
2013: Pope Francis
Less than a year after his papacy began, Pope Francis was recognized as Time’s Person of the Year in 2013. The magazine highlighted his efforts to transform the Catholic Church and his compassionate outreach to the vulnerable.
"He is about the healing mission of the church," managing editor Nancy Gibbs stated, emphasizing Pope Francis's focus on healing rather than theological disputes.
2014: Ebola Fighters
In 2014, West Africa faced the worst Ebola epidemic in history, and Time magazine honored the "Ebola fighters"—a group of heroic medical professionals and first responders on the front lines of this crisis. Each Ebola fighter was individually featured on a Time cover, showcasing their bravery.
Dr. Kent Brantly, one of the honorees, remarked, “It’s not simply a historic event that we’re looking back on. It’s still happening… they’re still in the trenches fighting that war.”
2015: Angela Merkel
Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was named Time’s Person of the Year in 2015 for her leadership during a tumultuous time in Europe, especially regarding the migrant crisis. As other nations closed their doors to refugees, Germany accepted over a million asylum seekers.
“This year she really was tested in how she would respond to some of the most difficult challenges that any leader is facing in the world,” managing editor Gibbs shared.
2016: Donald Trump
Donald Trump was named Time’s Person of the Year in 2016, even before taking office as president. His recognition stemmed from his ability to mobilize and energize a previously hidden electorate.
Time's cover referred to Trump as the "President of the Divided States of America," a term he contested during a subsequent interview.
2017: The Silence Breakers
The 2017 Person of the Year issue revolved around the #MeToo movement, which gained momentum earlier that year following allegations against film executive Harvey Weinstein. This movement represented a significant cultural shift as individuals spoke out against sexual harassment and assault.
Time's cover spotlighted key figures from the movement, including Ashley Judd, Taylor Swift, and Susan Fowler, highlighting their role in initiating an essential dialogue about abuse and accountability.
2018: The Guardians
The 2018 issue honored journalists who faced significant risks to pursue the truth. Among the featured individuals was Jamal Khashoggi, a columnist for the Washington Post who was murdered after his critiques of the Saudi government.
Other honorees included Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, who reported on the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. Their brave actions underscore the vital role of journalism in preserving democracy and accountability.
2019: Greta Thunberg
Greta Thunberg made history as the youngest person to be named Time’s Person of the Year in 2019 at just 16 years old. Her activism has inspired millions globally, especially through her #FridaysForFuture protests.
“She embodies youth activism,” noted Time's Felsenthal, emphasizing her extraordinary influence in bringing climate change to the forefront of global consciousness.
2020: Joe Biden and Kamala Harris
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