9 Famous Vegetarians That Made Worldwide History ...

Plato's diet reportedly reflected his philosophical beliefs about virtue and health. He often emphasized the importance of harmony between the body and the soul, suggesting that proper nutrition was key to this balance. In his written dialogues, he even discusses the moral and spiritual benefits of abstinence from eating meat. Given the centrality of moderation and asceticism in his thought, it's little wonder that Plato chose a lifestyle that would allow for a clear mind and a clean conscience, influencing countless thinkers and earning his place as a notable figure in the history of vegetarianism.

Einstein's switch to vegetarianism occurred during the latter part of his life, especially toward his last year in 1955. He expressed the sentiment that "a vegetarian manner of living by its purely physical effect on the human temperament would most beneficially influence a lot of mankind." His insight into the compassionate and health-conscious aspects of vegetarianism resonates with many across the globe. Not only does it underscore the potential for a single dietary choice to enact positive change, but it also highlights the interconnectedness Einstein saw between personal health and the broader ethical implications of our food choices.

Mahatma Gandhi's vegetarian lifestyle wasn't just a personal choice, but deeply intertwined with his ethical beliefs and commitment to ahimsa, or non-violence. He saw vegetarianism as a way to support the harmony between living beings and the earth. Through his adherence to a meatless diet, Gandhi exemplified restraint and compassion, principles that fueled his nonviolent approach to securing India's independence. His dietary practices continue to influence countless individuals who seek to make a peaceful impact on the world, honoring the connection between the food they eat and the values they cherish.

Benjamin Franklin's contribution to history extends even to his dietary choices. Famously practical and ever in pursuit of self-improvement, Franklin adopted a vegetarian lifestyle for a time, motivated by both health reasons and ethical considerations about the treatment of animals. His choice reflects the complexity of a man ahead of his time, intertwining personal health with a compassionate ethic. As a polymath, his actions often rippled across society, subtly influencing the cultural norms of his era and beyond. Franklin's embrace of vegetarianism serves as an early nod to a movement that would continue to grow for centuries.

Leonardo da Vinci's vegetarianism was intertwined with his profound respect for all living things. His dedication to nonviolence against animals was as radical as his art, forever altering perceptions about diet and ethics. This Renaissance man defied the conventions of his time, and his choice for a meat-free diet reflected his broader commitment to innovation, compassion, and curios exploration into the intricacies of nature and human creativity. His extraordinary works and lifestyle continue to resonate, encouraging new generations in their pursuit of artistic and intellectual advancement while considering the impact on all life forms.

Mary Shelley's impact extends beyond literature into the realm of philosophical and ethical debates, much of which intersects with discussions on vegetarianism. Her creation, Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, not only broke boundaries in the genre of science fiction but also questioned the essence of life and the consequences of playing God. Despite the monster's portrayal in popular culture, Shelley's original work presents a being with profound sensibilities, an aspect that aligns intriguingly with her own reported leanings towards a meat-free diet, reflecting a deep concern for living creatures and the sanctity of nature.

Alexander Pope wasn't just notable for his literary contributions; he was also recognized for his dietary choices, adhering to vegetarianism at a time when it was far from the norm. His beliefs in personal health and ethical considerations regarding animals influenced his lifestyle in a society predominantly composed of meat-eaters. Pope's choice to abstain from meat reflected a forward-thinking attitude towards diet and animal welfare, aligning him with other historical figures who also saw the value in a plant-based lifestyle. His influence extends beyond poetry, touching on cultural practices that continue to resonate today.

Lincoln, known for his leadership during the American Civil War and his efforts in abolishing slavery, also showed compassion for animals, aligning with the many women today who choose a plant-based diet for ethical reasons. While some debate his vegetarianism, his reported distaste for animal cruelty and his letters mentioning a desire to avoid meat suggest that his heart was with the cause. His moral convictions and progressive views only add to the esteem in which we hold Honest Abe - a man truly ahead of his time in many ways.