The first "corporate psychopath" ordered a large massacre to save water and food

Jeronimus Cornelisz, a merchant, became the leader of survivors from the Batavia shipwreck in 1629, committing numerous murders to control resources. Researchers identified him as the first known corporate psychopath, exhibiting traits like manipulation and fear instillation. In contrast, another leader, Wiebbe Hayes, fostered cooperation and resourcefulness, leading to survival. The study highlights the historical presence of toxic leadership in corporate settings and its implications for modern organizations, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in executive selection.