Didier Drogba: Peacemaker

Ever since the turn of the millennium, Ivory Coast had been a nation riddled with unrest, controversy, and civil war. The split was between a rebel, Muslim led North, and the original government, led by Christian ideologies. The catalyst for the fighting began when the Ivorians had to face democratic elections for the first time in 33 years, after the reign of their outstanding president came to an end. There was a ton of destruction brought to the streets, with whole villages even being burnt down. Before 2006, nearly 5,000 had reportedly died.

It was a terrible conflict, however, it was resolved in extraordinary fashion. Amidst the war, Ivory Coast was in the process of producing their greatest national soccer team ever, led by the legendary Didier Drogba. Drogba is seen as an idol by most, and is frequently considered "Ivory Coast's Most Important Person." He isn't loved only for his goals, but for his work in the community, and his frequent involvement with citizens. Heading into the 2006 World Cup, the Ivorians were in good shape to earn their place in the competition. A match in September, 2005 against Mozambique, was marred by rioting in and around the stadium. After the match, Drogba appeared on national TV, and fell to his knees as he begged both sides to put down their arms, and come together as a nation for their final match (a must win for qualification) a few days later. The match was scheduled to be played in one of the rebel strongholds, Bouake, and originally all of the South had refused to attend. Amazingly, the nation heard his cry, and leaders from both parties joined the team on the field for the singing of the national anthem. Ivory Coast won the match 5-0, and the two divisions of the nation called for an immediate cease fire, and began peace talks on how to move the nation forward.

It would be wrong to say that Ivory Coast is now perfect, but to this day they are unified under one democratic government, and free of war.