Theory into Practice: An Overview of Historical Leadership Theories and Approaches

The Theory into Practice series is designed to outline a chronological perspective of leadership theories and approaches. Each article will highlight a theoretical perspective or leadership approach, a scenario in which the theory or approach can be or has been used, as well as strengths and critiques of the theory. This first article defines leadership and briefly provides a chronological overview of the theories to be covered throughout this series. Written by Megan S. Cantrell, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, August 2025.