How Far Will Elon Musk’s Strengthened Power Go as a Key Supporter of Trump’s Victory?

 

Elon Musk's Influence as a Key Supporter of Donald Trump

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and a symbolic figure in the electric vehicle industry, played a pivotal role in supporting Donald Trump during his presidential campaign. Despite Trump’s policies, which favored traditional internal combustion engine vehicles over electric ones and proposed cutting subsidies for electric cars, Musk extended his support, leaving many puzzled. Following Trump’s election as president, Musk became increasingly involved in shaping future policies, particularly focusing on regulatory simplifications and reducing bureaucracy to favor Tesla's next big venture—autonomous driving technology. Musk's influence has become so pronounced that some media outlets have described him as akin to a "second president." His significant sway over U.S. policies raises questions about how his future might unfold and what parallels can be drawn from historical figures who wielded immense power behind the scenes.

Donald Trump, the president-elect of the United States, made a surprise appearance at a UFC event held at Madison Square Garden in New York, alongside Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. (Source: AFP)

Myeongnim Dapbu: A Statesman Who Elevated a King

Myeongnim Dapbu (明臨答夫) was a historical figure from Goguryeo who played a pivotal role in elevating Sindae Wang to the throne. Born into humble circumstances as a minor official (called Joui, 皂衣), he rose to the prestigious position of Guksang (國相), akin to a prime minister, wielding power comparable to the king. Faced with the tyranny of King Chadae, Myeongnim Dapbu orchestrated a coup, deposing and killing the monarch at the age of 99. He installed Sindae Wang, Chadae’s younger brother, as the new king. Grateful for his assistance, Sindae Wang entrusted him with the reins of the government and even military authority. Despite his immense power, Myeongnim Dapbu ruled judiciously and prioritized the welfare of Goguryeo. When the Han Dynasty threatened Goguryeo, he led a strategic military victory in the Battle of Jawon, where Goguryeo forces annihilated the Han cavalry. Myeongnim Dapbu passed away at the age of 113, leaving a lasting legacy. His clan, Yeonna-bu, gained prominence and contributed significantly to Goguryeo's royal lineage.

 

Hypothetical Bust of Myeongnim Dapbu, Goguryeo's First Prime Minister Artist: Kim Jun-tae

Lü Buwei: The Merchant Who Made a King

Lü Buwei (呂不韋) was a notable statesman during the Warring States period in ancient China. Originally a merchant, Lü Buwei amassed great wealth before encountering Yiren (異人), a Qin royal who was being held hostage in the Zhao state. Seeing an opportunity, Lü Buwei invested his fortune in Yiren's cause despite his slim chances of ascending to the throne. Using cunning diplomacy, Lü Buwei secured the favor of Hua Yang Fu-ren (華陽夫人), a childless concubine of the Qin king. He persuaded her to adopt Yiren as her son, thus positioning him as a potential heir. Lü Buwei continued his efforts by presenting rare treasures to Hua Yang Fu-ren on Yiren's behalf, eventually earning her full support. With Lü Buwei’s strategic interventions, Yiren returned to Qin and ultimately ascended the throne as King Zhuangxiang. In gratitude, the new king appointed Lü Buwei as Chancellor, granting him immense power that extended even beyond the Qin state. However, Lü Buwei’s fortunes crumbled under the rule of Qin Shi Huang. Rumored to be Qin Shi Huang's biological father, Lü Buwei lost the emperor's trust and was exiled. Unable to recover his position, he eventually ended his life in despair.

Lü Buwei, Prime Minister of Qin in the Late Warring States Period

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