Pablo Escobar is a name that evokes strong emotions and polarizing opinions. The notorious Colombian drug lord was one of the most powerful and notorious criminals to ever walk the streets of Colombia. While his reign of terror and illegal activities cannot be condoned, it is also important to acknowledge some of the positive benefits that Escobar's actions had on the people and society of Colombia.

1. Economic Stimulus

According to Forbes, at the height of his empire, Pablo Escobar was the seventh richest person in the world. With an estimated net worth of $30 billion, he drove a tremendous amount of economic activity in Colombia. He invested in various legitimate businesses, such as real estate, construction, and the transportation industry, which created thousands of jobs and boosted the economy.

One of the major economic contributions of Escobar was his construction of homes and community facilities for the poor. He was known for his philanthropic efforts in building housing projects, schools, and even soccer fields for the underprivileged communities in Medellin. This provided much-needed resources and improved the quality of life for many Colombians, especially the marginalized and impoverished.

2. Charitable Contributions

Pablo Escobar was not just about using his wealth for building his criminal empire, he also donated a significant amount of money to charitable causes. He used a portion of his drug money to fund social programs and provide basic necessities for the people in need. According to The Guardian, he gave thousands of dollars every week to the poor and even opened health clinics, hospitals, and churches in poor areas.

Escobar's large donations often went to families affected by natural disasters, victims of violence, and those who could not afford medical treatments. He also provided scholarships and supported research projects in Colombia's universities.

3. Political Influence

During his time, Pablo Escobar was feared and revered by many, including politicians and influential figures. He used his power and influence to demand that the government invest in the development of poor neighborhoods. He also used his political connections to negotiate with government officials for the surrender of his fellow drug lord enemies, helping to bring some semblance of peace and order to the drug trade.

In addition, Escobar's political power and wealth allowed him to challenge the Colombian government's extradition laws, which ultimately resulted in these laws being abolished. This prevented many Colombian criminals from being sent to American prisons, where conditions were known to be harsh.

4. Tourism

While many may find it hard to believe, Escobar's legacy has become a popular tourist attraction in Colombia. The infamous leader's properties, including his mansion Hacienda Napoles and the former prison where he was held, have been turned into tourist hot spots. Tourists can visit these sites and learn about Escobar's life and the impact he had on Colombia's history.

Moreover, the popularity of the Netflix series "Narcos," which portrays Escobar's rise to power, has also drawn many tourists to Colombia to see the places depicted in the show. This has boosted Colombia's tourism industry and brought in much-needed revenue for the country.

In conclusion, while Pablo Escobar's actions cannot be justified, it is important to acknowledge the positive effects he had on Colombia. His immense wealth and power may have been acquired through illegal means, but he also used a portion of it to improve the lives of many Colombians. The economic stimulus, charitable contributions, political influence, and tourism boost are just some of the ways Escobar's actions had a positive impact on society. However, it is crucial to remember that these benefits came at a great cost, and the harms caused by his criminal activities and violence cannot be overlooked.