Before the rise and fall of Hitler, was there a historical figure that was colloquially used as a representation of evil?

by [deleted]

Just as people spice up their rhetoric by comparing an opponent Hitler, I'm wondering if there were other world leaders before Hitler that were used in this way.

Searocksandtrees

hi! you'll find more nominations in this section of the FAQ*

Who was considered the "most evil person" before Hitler?

*see the link on the sidebar or the wiki tab

cecikierk

(I understand there has been similar threads in the past, but I have not seen this as an answer)

There is a Chinese idiom that dates back from the Warring State: "Assisting Emperor Jie in his abuse" (助桀為虐). Emperor Jie was regarded as one of the most tyrannical ruler in ancient China.