If you could meet a historical figure, who would it be and why?

I have met so many people in my life, a few who have or will become historical figures.

Just as you should not judge a book by its cover. Historical figures may not be as fascinating as history depicts them. Just like all humans historical figures can be a mixed bag.

Honestly I can’t reliably make a decision.  Obviously this is a personal opinion.

Were I to randomly meet a historical figure that would be just fine and rather fascinating. A chance to interact as equals, perhaps on a long train or aircraft journey. Somewhere that we are unable to escape one another until our book or a podcast lets us off the hook.

I suppose what I fear is not only managing my expectations but also the historical figures’ perceptions of me.

Would they give me, a non historical figure, just 30 seconds of small talk and move on when someone of more interest, to them, appears on the horizon.