US Presidents Ranked: Who Made History and Who Changed the Future?

Since George Washington first took the oath of office in 1789, the United States has been led by 46 presidents. Each one left a mark — some unforgettable, some controversial, and some almost forgotten. Historians, economists, and everyday citizens continue to debate who deserves to be remembered as great leaders and who struggled to rise to the challenges of their time.

Presidential rankings are not just about personal popularity. They are shaped by historical events, legislative achievements, economic performance, and even public perception decades later. Some presidents made history during moments of crisis, while others changed the future by laying foundations for generations to come.

Let’s take a closer look at which U.S. presidents stand out as history-makers, who shaped America’s future, and how recent leaders like Joe Biden and Donald Trump compare to the giants of the past.

Thomas Jefferson: Architect of Independence and Expansion

Thomas Jefferson, the nation’s third president (1801–1809), holds a unique place in American history. Before his presidency, Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776, one of the most important documents in human history. It declared liberty, equality, and the right to self-determination — values that remain at the heart of democracy.

As president, Jefferson’s greatest achievement was the Louisiana Purchase (1803), which doubled America’s size and opened new possibilities for exploration and settlement. He also sponsored the Lewis and Clark expedition, which mapped vast new territories.

However, Jefferson was also a man of contradictions. He spoke about freedom and equality but was himself a slaveholder. This legacy remains a subject of debate among historians, yet his vision of an expanding, independent America cemented his place as one of the leaders who shaped both history and the nation’s future.

Abraham Lincoln: The Nation’s Greatest President

When it comes to presidential rankings, Abraham Lincoln (1861–1865) nearly always takes the top spot. Lincoln guided the country through its darkest chapter — the Civil War — and worked tirelessly to preserve the Union.

In 1863, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, a historic step toward ending slavery. Two years later, his leadership helped pass the 13th Amendment, which Abraham Lincoln: The Nation’s Greatest President abolished slavery in the United States.

Lincoln also ad a gift for words. His Gettysburg Address remains one of the most quoted speeches in history, reminding Americans that their nation was built on equality and sacrifice.

According to the 2021 C-SPAN Presidential Historians Survey, , Lincoln was ranked number one overall, reaffirming his legacy as not just the best U.S. president, but also one of the most influential leaders in world history.

Franklin D. Roosevelt: Leadership Through Crisis

Another president who consistently ranks near the top is Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945). FDR guided the nation through both the Great Depression and World War II, serving longer than any other president in U.S. history.

Through his New Deal programs, Roosevelt redefined the role of the federal government, creating jobs, regulating banks, and introducing Social Security. These policies provided relief during economic hardship and reshaped American society for decades.

Internationally, FDR’s leadership during World War II helped secure victory for the Allies. His partnership with Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin changed the global balance of power and set the stage for America’s emergence as a world leader.

Theodore Roosevelt: The Progressive Reformer

Before FDR, there was Theodore Roosevelt (1901–1909), who brought a new energy to the presidency. Known as the “trust buster,” he took on monopolies and fought for fair competition. He was also a conservationist, creating national parks, forests, and monuments that remain treasures today.

Teddy Roosevelt’s famous saying, “Speak softly and carry a big stick,” defined his foreign policy. He strengthened the U.S. Navy and oversaw the building of the Panama Canal, which transformed global trade. His legacy is that of a reformer who pushed America into the 20th century.

Dwight D. Eisenhower: A Calm Hand in the Cold War

Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961), a World War II hero, brought stability and calm during a time of Cold War tensions. As president, he launched the interstate highway system, which transformed transportation and commerce in America.

Eisenhower’s leadership style was steady and pragmatic. He balanced budgets, avoided costly wars, and warned against the “military-industrial complex.” His presidency is often remembered as a time of prosperity and stability, making him one of the more underrated presidents in U.S. rankings.

Lyndon B. Johnson: The President of Civil Rights

Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969) left one of the most important legacies in U.S. history: civil rights legislation. He signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, landmark laws that outlawed segregation and protected African Americans’ right to vote.

Johnson also launched the “Great Society” programs, which aimed to reduce poverty, improve education, and expand healthcare. However, his escalation of the Vietnam War damaged his reputation and overshadowed many of his domestic achievements.

Ronald Reagan: The Conservative Icon

Ronald Reagan (1981–1989) is often remembered as a transformative president who reshaped American politics. His policies, known as “Reaganomics,” emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and free markets. Supporters credit him with reviving the economy, while critics argue his policies widened inequality.

On the world stage, Reagan played a key role in ending the Cold War. His famous demand — “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” — symbolized the fall of communism in Eastern Europe. Reagan’s legacy is still influential today, particularly in conservative politics.

Barack Obama: Hope and Change for a New Generation

Barack Obama (2009–2017) made history as America’s first African American president. He came to office during the Great Recession and implemented policies such as the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), which expanded healthcare to millions.

Obama also oversaw the operation that killed Osama bin Laden, brought U.S. troops home from Iraq, and promoted renewable energy. While his critics say some promises fell short, Obama remains highly popular and is often ranked among the top modern presidents for his inspirational leadership.

Joe Biden: A Presidency Still Taking Shape

Joe Biden (2021–present) has faced unique challenges: the aftermath of a pandemic, global conflicts, and political polarization. His administration passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, both aimed at reshaping America’s economy for the future.

Biden is not ranked among the best or worst presidents. Historians suggest his final place in history will depend on how his policies impact long-term issues like climate change, inflation, and international relations. For now, he sits somewhere in the middle — a president still defining his legacy.

Donald Trump: A Divisive Legacy

Donald Trump (2017–2021) remains one of the most polarizing presidents in history. He oversaw strong economic growth before the COVID-19 pandemic, cut taxes, and reshaped the Supreme Court with conservative appointments.

However, his administration also saw deep political division, two impeachments, and widespread criticism of his handling of the pandemic. In the  , Trump ranked last overall. Supporters argue he put “America First,” but critics see his legacy as one of division and chaos.

Benjamin Harrison and Stock Market Rankings

Not all presidents are remembered for wars or sweeping reforms. Some are judged by  stock market performance. Since Benjamin Harrison (1889–1893), economists have ranked presidents by how the market fared during their terms. Harrison himself didn’t do well — his presidency saw shaky economic conditions that hurt his reputation.

Rankings by financial outlets like Forbes and MarketWatch highlight that while stock markets are influenced by presidents, global events and cycles play an equally important role. It’s a reminder that presidential legacies are shaped by forces beyond one person’s control.

Conclusion: Who Made History, Who Changed the Future?

Made History: Lincoln saved the Union, Jefferson expanded America, FDR led through crisis, and Obama broke barriers.

Changed the Future: Johnson advanced civil rights, Reagan shifted economic policy, and Biden’s climate and infrastructure laws could shape decades to come.

Presidential rankings are never final. Time has a way of reshaping reputations. What seems controversial today may be seen as visionary tomorrow. That’s why the debate over who was “best” or “worst” will always remain alive — and that’s part of the story of America itself.

FAQs

Who is considered the best U.S. president?

Abraham Lincoln is consistently ranked the best, thanks to his leadership during the Civil War and his role in ending slavery.

Which presidents changed America the most?

Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Ronald Reagan are often seen as transformative leaders.

Is Joe Biden one of the best or worst presidents?

Neither. Historians currently place him in the middle, with his final ranking depending on long-term outcomes of his policies.

Who ranks the lowest among presidents?

Donald Trump is often ranked last in modern surveys, though some argue his policies may be viewed differently in the future.

Do stock markets determine presidential success?

Not always. Economic performance during a presidency can help or hurt reputations, but outside factors like global events play a major role.