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Presidents Ranked by IQ Scores

1. John Quincy Adams – Estimated IQ: 175

John Quincy Adams, with an estimated IQ of 175, was a Harvard graduate who mastered seven languages. As Secretary of State under James Monroe, he played key roles in shaping policies like the Monroe Doctrine and the Treaty of Ghent. Known for his oratory skills, Adams' intellectual prowess was evident throughout his career. Despite facing political opposition during his presidency, his diplomatic achievements laid important foundations for the young nation.

Some of Adams' notable accomplishments include:

  • Negotiating the end of the War of 1812
  • Shaping the Monroe Doctrine
  • Advocating for the founding of the Smithsonian Institution
John Quincy Adams in his role as Secretary of State, working on diplomatic papers

2. Thomas Jefferson – Estimated IQ: 160

Thomas Jefferson, with an estimated IQ of 160, was a multifaceted intellectual. He authored the Declaration of Independence and orchestrated the Louisiana Purchase as the third President. Jefferson's interests extended beyond politics; he designed Monticello, pioneered agricultural techniques, and founded the University of Virginia.

Jefferson's diverse achievements included:

  • Writing the Declaration of Independence
  • Doubling the size of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase
  • Advancing fields such as economics, architecture, paleontology, and astronomy
  • Cultivating a renowned wine collection

His curiosity spanned various fields, reflecting a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and improvement.

Thomas Jefferson in his personal library at Monticello, surrounded by books and inventions

3. John F. Kennedy – Estimated IQ: 150

John F. Kennedy, with an estimated IQ of 150, led the U.S. through significant events like the Cuban Missile Crisis. A Harvard graduate, Kennedy's presidency saw the establishment of the Peace Corps and progress in civil rights. He also set the goal of landing an American on the moon.

Notable achievements and facts:

  • Won a Purple Heart for heroic actions in World War II
  • Created the Peace Corps
  • Played a crucial role in passing the Civil Rights Act of 1964
  • Only president to win a Pulitzer Prize

Despite his short tenure, Kennedy's decisions had lasting impacts on American domestic and foreign policy.

President John F. Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, deep in thought at his desk in the Oval Office

4. James Madison – Estimated IQ: 145

James Madison, with an estimated IQ of 145, was instrumental in drafting the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. His deep understanding of political theory, gained from studying at Princeton, shaped the framework of American governance. As the fourth President, Madison led the nation through the War of 1812.

Key contributions:

  • Known as the "Father of the Constitution"
  • Authored the Bill of Rights
  • Served as Princeton's first graduate student (unofficially)

Madison's intellectual contributions laid the groundwork for the United States' legal and political system.

James Madison working on drafting the U.S. Constitution

5. Bill Clinton – Estimated IQ: 140

Bill Clinton, with an estimated IQ of 140, attended Georgetown, Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, and Yale Law School. His presidency (1993-2001) saw the signing of NAFTA and the Welfare Reform Act. Clinton navigated the economic boom of the 1990s, achieving budget surpluses.

Highlights of Clinton's career:

  • Signed the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
  • Oversaw a period of economic prosperity
  • Faced impeachment but remained in office
  • Left office with high approval ratings

Post-presidency, Clinton has focused on humanitarian efforts through the Clinton Foundation.

President Bill Clinton signing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in the Oval Office

6. Jimmy Carter – Estimated IQ: 135

Jimmy Carter, with an estimated IQ of 135, brought his background in engineering and naval service to the presidency (1977-1981). His major achievement was brokering the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt.

Carter's post-presidency work in global peace and public health through the Carter Center earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Other Notable Presidents:

  • Woodrow Wilson – Estimated IQ: 130
  • George Washington – Estimated IQ: 125
President Jimmy Carter brokering the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt

7. Woodrow Wilson – Estimated IQ: 130

Wilson, with an estimated IQ of 130, handled World War I and peacetime with strategic thinking. His academic background included Princeton, the University of Virginia, and Johns Hopkins. As president of Princeton University, he showed commitment to education.

During World War I, Wilson's Fourteen Points speech laid groundwork for a peaceful world order and the League of Nations. Though the U.S. rejected membership, his vision earned him the 1919 Nobel Peace Prize.

Domestically, Wilson's reforms included:

  • The Federal Reserve Act
  • Clayton Antitrust Act

However, his views on race and segregation remain problematic.

After his presidency, Wilson continued advocating for global cooperation, influencing the future United Nations.

President Woodrow Wilson presenting his Fourteen Points speech, advocating for the League of Nations

8. George Washington – Estimated IQ: 125

Washington, with an estimated IQ of 125, proved leadership isn't solely about formal education. His early interest in mathematics and surveying laid the foundation for his military and political career.

As Commander-in-Chief during the Revolutionary War, Washington's strategic skills kept colonial forces united despite challenges. His leadership at Valley Forge transformed a weakened force into an effective fighting unit.

Washington's role in the Constitutional Convention of 1787 helped shape the U.S. Constitution. As the first President, he set precedents that guide the office today, including stepping down after two terms.

His innovative farming practices at Mount Vernon reflect his intellectual curiosity beyond politics and military matters.

George Washington presiding over the Constitutional Convention of 1787

9. Abraham Lincoln – Estimated IQ: 120

Lincoln, with an estimated IQ of 120, was largely self-taught. His journey from frontier life to successful attorney showcases his determination and intellect.

As the 16th President, Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War demonstrated strategic thinking and emotional intelligence. His Gettysburg Address, delivered in 1863, remains a masterclass in eloquence and reasoning.

Key achievements:

  • Emancipation Proclamation
  • Push for the Thirteenth Amendment

These actions highlighted Lincoln's understanding of socio-political dynamics and commitment to justice. His vision for Reconstruction aimed at healing a divided nation.

Lincoln's legacy proves that intelligence isn't just about raw cognitive ability, but the application of wisdom and strategic thinking to leadership challenges.

President Abraham Lincoln signing the Emancipation Proclamation

10. Joe Biden – Estimated IQ: 110

Biden, with an estimated IQ of 110, shows the importance of grit in reaching the presidency. His journey was marked by personal and political hurdles.

Starting as one of the youngest Senators at 29, Biden became known as a pragmatic, centrist Democrat. His ability to work across the aisle has been crucial in today's polarized politics.

As the 46th President, Biden's leadership style blends empathy and practicality. His experience as Vice President under Obama provided understanding of domestic and international issues.

Biden's estimated IQ doesn't tell the whole story. His political acumen and emotional intelligence have shaped his ability to lead, proving that presidential qualities extend beyond traditional intellect.

President Joe Biden making a crucial decision in the Oval Office

11. Donald Trump – Estimated IQ: 90

Trump, with an estimated IQ of 90, challenges traditional measures of intelligence. His success in business and politics raises questions about how we assess cognitive abilities.

Trump's background in television provided skills to captivate audiences, crucial in today's media-driven politics. His brand-building and aggressive business approach translated into political strategy.

"I think he's our most cunning president, and I think there is a certain amount of intellect that that requires," says Barbara Perry, director of presidential studies at the University of Virginia's Miller Center.

As president, Trump's unconventional tactics and use of social media revolutionized presidential communication. His ability to bypass traditional media and directly engage followers showcased understanding of contemporary media landscapes.

Trump's estimated IQ fails to capture his skills in public engagement and political maneuvering. His career proves that intelligence manifests in various forms, impacting history regardless of conventional metrics.

President Donald Trump engaging with followers on social media

U.S. presidents' intellectual capacities manifest in diverse ways, from strategic foresight to practical wisdom, shaping their contributions to American history.