Cardinal Fleury vs Rodrigo Duterte

Fleury implemented financial reforms to stabilize the French economy after the collapse of John Law's Mississippi Company. He reduced taxes, balanced the budget, and restored confidence in the currency, leading to a period of economic stability and growth.

After the disgrace of the Duke of Bourbon, the elderly Fleury was appointed chief minister by King Louis XV. Fleury, who had been the king's tutor, became the de facto ruler of France at age 73, stabilizing the government after a period of political turmoil.

Fleury involved France in the War of the Polish Succession to support Stanis

Fleury reluctantly led France into the War of the Austrian Succession after the death of Emperor Charles VI. The war, fought against Austria and its allies, drained French resources and ended indecisively with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle (1748).

Fleury died at age 90, ending his 17-year tenure as chief minister. His death left Louis XV without a capable advisor, leading to a period of weak governance and the eventual decline of French influence in Europe.

Rodrigo Duterte won the Philippine presidential election on a platform of law and order, promising to eradicate drugs and crime. His victory marked a shift in Philippine politics, with his tough-talking style and controversial policies gaining widespread support.

Duterte initiated a nationwide anti-drug campaign, encouraging police and vigilantes to kill drug suspects. Thousands of people were killed in extrajudicial executions, drawing international condemnation for human rights abuses. The policy remained popular domestically despite the violence.

Duterte shifted Philippine foreign policy away from the United States, seeking closer ties with China and Russia. He downplayed the South China Sea arbitration ruling and welcomed Chinese investments, a move that drew criticism from traditional allies and human rights advocates.

After Islamist militants linked to ISIS occupied Marawi City, Duterte declared martial law in the entire Mindanao region. The move was approved by Congress and lasted for two years, allowing the military to suppress the insurgency but raising concerns about civil liberties.

Duterte's government implemented one of the world's longest and strictest lockdowns to combat COVID-19. The response was criticized for being economically damaging and poorly coordinated, with the Philippines suffering one of the highest infection and death rates in Asia.