Trump's Controversial Comparison: Historical Figures and Modern Influence

A document shared by Donald Trump on Truth Social has drawn attention for comparing his influence to that of infamous historical leaders. Authored by South African businessman Dave King, the document argues that Trump's reach surpasses that of figures like Hitler and Stalin due to modern technology. This comparison has sparked significant online discussion, particularly regarding the implications of such a claim. King, a former caddie for golfer Gary Player, is not a professional historian but has maintained a long-standing friendship with Player. The document's controversial nature has led to debates about the nature of power and influence in today's world.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 06:20 IST

Document Authored by South African Businessman

Reports indicate that a document shared by former US President Donald Trump, which likened his influence to that of some of history's most infamous leaders, was authored by a South African businessman and ex-golf caddie. Trump shared this document on Truth Social early Thursday, referring to its writer as "Presidential Historian Dave King." He commented, "Presidential Historian Dave King — Sounds good to me!" alongside the two-page analysis.

The document contended that while historical figures like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Genghis Khan, Attila the Hun, Napoleon Bonaparte, Adolf Hitler, Mao Zedong, and Joseph Stalin wielded power through fear and conquest, Trump's influence surpasses theirs due to contemporary technology and global systems. King noted that historically powerful leaders were characterized by their brutal conquests and the fear they instilled in people. He emphasized, "The significant difference between these leaders and President Trump is their limited global reach."

King elaborated that these historical figures had power confined to specific regions, lacking the extensive control over modern logistics, manpower, technology, and global economic strength that Trump possesses.

Understanding Dave King

As reported by a major news outlet, the "Dave King" mentioned by Trump is not a recognized historian but rather a long-time friend and former caddie of renowned South African golfer Gary Player. The document was also referenced during interviews Trump conducted with journalists from a prominent newspaper, with details expected to be included in their upcoming book, Regime Change.

According to the news outlet, King initially shared his insights with Player before discussing them directly with Trump during a golf outing in Florida. The document was reportedly presented to Trump at an event honoring Player. At 70 years old, King was born in Scotland and relocated to South Africa in 1976. He later became a businessman and financial consultant, making it onto South Africa's Rich List in 2012. Additionally, he served as chairman of the Glasgow football club Rangers and has maintained a long-standing friendship with Player, even acting as his caddie during Player's final appearances at the Masters Tournament in Augusta.

The document gained attention due to its references to various historical figures known for conquest, dictatorship, and mass violence. Trump's sharing of this assessment sparked discussions online, particularly regarding the comparisons drawn between his influence and that of leaders like Hitler, Stalin, and Mao.