According to experts and professional historians, a survey published by CSPAN ranked the best and worst US presidents. The ranking quickly sparked outrage for its perceived shortcomings and subjectivity. Undoubtedly, many Americans disagree with the ranking. Americans have been encouraged to share their thoughts and, most importantly, exercise their right to vote in order for their voices to be heard. In light of Trump’s historic reelection in the 2024 presidential race, we take another look at what critics say about his legacy in comparison to other presidents.
Ranked #1 Best: Abraham Lincoln is remembered as a great president for his leadership during the Civil War, which preserved the Union. By signing the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincolc marked a significant step toward ending slavery. Lincoln’s commitment and vision for Reconstruction left a lasting impact on the U.S. and its values.
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Ranked #2 Best: George Washington, the first President of the United States, led the Continental Army to victory in the American Revolutionary War and is known as the “Father of His Country.”
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Ranked #3 Best: Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the U.S., served four terms and led the country through the Great Depression and World War II.
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Ranked #4 Best: Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the U.S., is known for his progressive reforms, conservation efforts, and role in negotiating the end of the Russo-Japanese War.
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Ranked #5 Best: Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the U.S., a five-star general in World War II who oversaw the Allied invasion of Europe and later focused on infrastructure and international diplomacy.
Ranked #6 Best: Harry S. Truman, 33rd President of the U.S., succeeded FDR and made critical decisions during the final stages of World War II, including the use of atomic bombs on Japan.
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Ranked #7 Best: Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the U.S., is remembered as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and a key figure in early American history.
Ranked #8 Best: John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the U.S., known for his inspirational speeches, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the early stages of the Space Race.
Ranked #9 Best: Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the U.S., former actor and governor of California, known for conservative policies, economic reforms, and his role in ending the Cold War.
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Ranked #10 Best: Barack Obama: 44th President of the U.S.; first African American president, known for his signature healthcare reform, economic recovery efforts, and emphasis on social justice.
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Ranked #1 Worst: James Buchanan: 15th President of the U.S.; his presidency is often criticized for its inability to address the issues leading up to the Civil War, including the tension over slavery.
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Ranked #2 Worst: Andrew Johnson: 17th President of the U.S.; succeeded Abraham Lincoln and is noted for his contentious Reconstruction policies and impeachment by the House of Representatives.
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Ranked #3 Worst: Franklin Pierce: 14th President of the U.S.; known for his attempts to address sectional conflicts over slavery, which ultimately failed to prevent the Civil War.
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Ranked #4 Worst: Donald J. Trump, the 45th and 47th President of the U.S., is a businessman and television personality who focused on deregulation, tax reform, and an “America First” policy agenda.
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