Meaning: The quote "Sooner will a camel pass through a needle's eye than a great man be 'discovered' by an election" is attributed to Adolf Hitler, the infamous dictator and leader of Nazi Germany during World War II. This quote is a powerful and provocative statement that reflects Hitler's disdain for democratic processes and his belief in the superiority of authoritarian rule.

The comparison of a camel passing through a needle's eye to the discovery of a great man through an election is a metaphor that conveys the extreme improbability, in Hitler's view, of a truly exceptional and capable leader emerging through the democratic electoral process. The imagery of a camel, a large and cumbersome animal, attempting to pass through the tiny aperture of a needle's eye is meant to emphasize the perceived futility of seeking greatness through democratic means.

Hitler's contempt for democracy and elections is well-documented in his writings and speeches. He viewed democracy as weak and ineffective, believing that it led to the rise of mediocrity rather than greatness. In Hitler's worldview, a great leader should be a visionary and a strongman, capable of imposing his will and enacting radical changes without being constrained by the checks and balances of a democratic system.

The quote also underscores Hitler's belief in the concept of the "great man" – an individual of exceptional talent, charisma, and leadership abilities who is destined to shape the course of history. This echoes the ideas of "great man theory," which suggests that history is largely driven by the actions and influence of extraordinary individuals. Hitler saw himself as such a "great man," and he sought to position himself as the savior of Germany and the architect of a new world order.

The use of the word "discovered" in quotation marks in the quote is significant, as it implies that the true greatness of a leader cannot be unearthed or recognized through the democratic process of an election. Instead, Hitler suggests that the emergence of a great leader is a rare and almost mystical occurrence, beyond the realm of ordinary human agency.

It's important to note the source of this quote and the context in which it was spoken or written. Adolf Hitler's views on leadership, democracy, and governance were deeply intertwined with his radical and totalitarian ideology, which ultimately led to the devastation of World War II and the Holocaust. Therefore, while the quote offers insight into Hitler's mindset and beliefs, it should be approached with a critical understanding of its origins and the historical consequences of his ideas.

In conclusion, the quote "Sooner will a camel pass through a needle's eye than a great man be 'discovered' by an election" encapsulates Adolf Hitler's contempt for democratic processes and his veneration of authoritarian leadership. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of embracing autocratic ideologies that reject the principles of democracy and the value of collective decision-making.