Final answer:
Montag's transition from student to leader in 'Fahrenheit 451' is evidenced by his shift from being influenced by others to inspiring and leading others towards free thought, as highlighted by his self-reflection and actions towards the end of the book.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Fahrenheit 451, Montag's transformation from a student to a leader is evident through his interactions with other characters and the evolution of his actions. Initially, Montag is influenced by Clarisse's questioning of society and Faber's wisdom, indicating his role as a learner. However, by the end of the book, he starts making his own decisions and inspires others to think freely, marking his shift to a leadership role.
This change can be supported by textual evidence where Montag imagines a better version of himself, displaying potential strength and leadership ("Then he saw himself as he might be, strong, helpful, kindly."). Additionally, his actions in the falling action of the novel show that he comes out of the climactic experience changed and potentially wiser, another indication of his leadership emergence.