The Most Intelligent US Presidents and Their IQ Ratings

Bill Clinton

Men with higher intelligence quotient (IQ) appear to be more prone to infidelity, a notion that was exemplified in one of the most significant scandals of the White House, involving Bill Clinton.

Even with an extraordinary intelligence quotient of 159, he couldn’t shield himself from the uproar of the press and public attention. He refuted his covert relationship with Monica Lewinsky, asserting, “I did not have sexual relations with that woman.” Yet, even Clinton’s remarkably high IQ couldn’t assist him in lying convincingly. Beyond committing infidelity, he also misplaced the nuclear trigger codes for several months. This leaves us speechless.

Warren G. Harding

Warren Harding was once highly regarded as one of America’s most beloved presidents. Nevertheless, his association with ‘The Teapot Dome’ scandal tarnished his glowing reputation. He awarded personal oil businesses lucrative privileges to mine for oil and gas in Wyoming, resulting in funds being channeled through the presidential residence. Clearly, he relished the fruits of this arrangement. Undeniably, this scandal eroded the prestige he once possessed.

What became of his 139.9 IQ score? Harding visualized an America dominated by a thriving economy where the wealthy accumulated more wealth. He bolstered the economy and reduced public debt. However, his reputation was tarnished due to scandal and other questionable occurrences in the Oval Office.

John F. Kennedy

JFK, known as one of the most intelligent American presidents, leaves a remarkable legacy with his astonishing IQ of 159.8. Besides being recognized for delivering one of the most impactful speeches in history, he was also purported to have been quite popular with women.

His renowned romantic involvements include figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Jackie O. JFK, in a humorous remark about his presidential role, said, “the pay is satisfying, and my office is a walking distance away.” What mostly immortalizes him in people’s memory are his insightful philosophical statements and speeches.

Ulysses S. Grant

Before we jump to conclusions, it’s important to remember that the typical Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is between 85 and 115. With this in mind, it’s clear to see that Grant’s IQ of 130 is rather commendable. Nonetheless, this evidently was not beneficial in helping him uncover issues such as the Whiskey Ring scandal, hidden tax revenue, and other contentious incidents that occurred during his term.

Keep in mind that he ascended to the position of the 18th President of the United States and served as the supreme leader of the Union forces during the American Civil War. Even with an IQ score that was higher than average, his ability to assess people’s character wasn’t exceptional.

James Monroe

James Monroe, a founding father of America, led the country at a period when internal problems were significantly urgent. Although his IQ score was a mere 138.6, political researcher Fred Greenstein argued that Monroe’s leadership was superior to some of his predecessors, such as John Adams, who may have had higher intellectual capacity.

The Monroe administration effectively tackled a myriad of problems, aiding in the successful enactment of the Missouri Compromise, and consolidating power within the country. In the year 1820, Monroe scored an impressive electoral triumph against Rufus King from New York, winning 183 votes to King’s 34. Truly, he was a president that catalyzed beneficial shifts for the betterment of his compatriots.

George W. Bush

Regrettably, Bush garnered a reputation as one of America’s least intelligent presidents. His performance was not reflective of his 138.5 IQ in the least.

Despite his reputation for being an eloquent wordsmith, his skills in public speaking were notably absent and most of his remarks did not come across as logical. Even though his high school academic performance wasn’t outstanding, he was truly excellent in making social connections. Interestingly, he once served as the leading cheerleader. Picture that, George W. Bush energetically waving pom-poms!

Andrew Johnson

Abraham Lincoln’s successor was supportive of the Union but showed little interest in ensuring voting rights for formerly enslaved individuals. Johnson holds the distinction of being the first president to face impeachment, which occurred after he sanctioned the enforcement of “black codes,” greatly undermining the rights of newly emancipated slaves. Regrettably, he staunchly opposed laws intended to safeguard these individuals.

Despite having an impressive IQ of 138.9, Johnson’s thought process was surprisingly regressive and discriminatory, which was rather unfortunate. Efforts from the White House to oust him through impeachment did not succeed. His presidential term, which lasted from 1865 to 1869, resulted in widespread discontent and frustration among the citizens.

Zachary Taylor

Cherries can provide a substantial amount of Vitamin C but consuming them in excess can lead to problems. Just ask Zachary Taylor, whose stint as president was curtailed after he overindulged in these tiny red fruits during a 4th of July festivity in 1850.

Indulgence proved to be destructive for Taylor, who met his end only 16 months into his presidential term. His bravery in the Mexican-American War made him a hero, but despite having an impressive IQ of 139.8, his intelligence and valor could not shield him from the adverse effects of excessive cherry consumption.

James Buchanan

Despite having an alleged IQ of 139.6, James Buchanan’s presidency was not aided by this high intelligence score. He failed to grasp the essential understanding and foresight needed to resolve the dispute over slavery. Though his support for Dred Scott won favor with the Southerners, it ignited the anger of the Northerners. This caused a ripple effect that grew so intense it caused a split within his own political party.

The 15th U.S. President is recognized for his leadership during the Civil War. Regrettably, Buchanan was unlucky in love, maintaining his status as the sole perennial bachelor to hold the highest position of leadership in the country.

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson, who had a high intelligence quotient of 145, was a firm believer in the common folk’s ability to “make the correct choice.” His life’s events surely culminated in the truth of the old saying “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger”, as he got injured when he was shot in his chest during a duel. Jackson, being an faithful investor of his IQ, invested substantial time teaching his pet parrot, named Polly, to curse. His training was so successful that the bird had to be escorted out of Jackson’s funeral due to its inappropriate language.

William Howard Taft

Get acquainted with the 27th President of the United States, William Howard Taft, who possessed an impressive IQ of 139.5. In addition to holding the presidential office, he also served as the Chief Justice, making him the sole individual to have occupied both positions.

This impressive man proved his political acumen was matched to his IQ, showcasing his inventive side by constructing a custom-built bathtub big enough for four average people. Nonetheless, Taft didn’t seem particularly enthused about his presidential duties. As he penned, “I don’t recall ever being President.”

Gerald Ford

Serving as the 38th US president, Ford had an intellectual quotient of 140.4. When Nixon resigned amidst the infamous Watergate scandal, Ford famously became the first president in the history of America who was not elected. Though his presidency is often regarded as unremarkable, he made considerable efforts to restore the faith of the American populace following the Watergate scandal.

Beyond his admirable intellect, Ford was amongst the most recognized sportsmen who held the position in the Oval office. His years of engaging in activities like football and skiing ensured he maintained agility and vitality.

Calvin Coolidge

Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, possessed an impressive IQ of 141.6. Though he was generally reserved, he left an indelible mark on the US. Following the ill-fated Harding presidency, Coolidge stepped in as a fixer as well as a defender of the middle class, rejuvenating the public’s faith in the government. Coolidge was instrumental in rectifying numerous problematic situations during his tenure, concluding his term with notable public approval.

He was known as “Silent Cal” because he was not a man to talk much. There’s a famous tale about a woman who sat next to him at a social event. She mentioned that she had wagered that day she would be able to get him to speak more than two words. To this, Cal Coolidge responded calmly with, “You lose.” His response was notably effortless.

Harry S. Truman

Harry S. Truman, known for his assertiveness, served as the president during two significant conflicts – the Second World War and the beginning of the Cold War. His tenure as Vice President of the United States lasted just a few weeks before he ascended to the presidency after Roosevelt’s death. He once expressed to journalists that he felt as though “the moon, the stars, and all the planets had dropped down on him.”

Throughout his presidency, Truman effectively utilized his high IQ of 139.8 to address complex issues such as the construction of the atomic bomb and escalating tensions with the Soviets. He carved out a significant chapter in American history when he gave the go-ahead for the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Lyndon B. Johnson

Taking the reins after JFK, Lyndon B. Johnson undeniably faced a daunting task. While his performance might not have met everyone’s expectations, he undoubtably made a contentious impact on the annals of America’s presidential chronicles.

His 140.6 IQ surely played a part in his resolution to augment the US military involvement in Vietnam. Maybe, consulting with Woodrow Wilson beforehand would have been a smart move. In a more amusing context, Johnson was infamous for his straightforward ‘lavatory conversations,’ staunchly denying journalists the chance to interfere with his personal time. He also notoriously relieved himself in the White House’s parking area.

Herbert Hoover

Herbert Hoover’s tenure coincided with the devastating 1929 stock-market crash. Despite his remarkable IQ of 141.6, steering the country at this trying time was challenging. By the close of the decade, he had become an unpopular figure as countless Americans were jobless and homeless.

America was in dire need of a leader capable of bringing the nation out of the Depression, but they were stuck with an ineffective figure. Hoover was accountable for refusing assistance to struggling Americans, all under the banner of capitalism. His presidency represented a gloomy era of frustration and difficulty for many citizens.

Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan, who held the 40th presidency of the United States for two terms, had a career in acting before ascending to the nation’s highest office. With an IQ of 141.9, his intelligence was average among presidents. His renowned catchphrase, “peace through strength,” gave the populace hope that he would meet his promise of rejuvenating the “assured progression and expansion of America.”

Nevertheless, the 1980s Iran Arms Scandal tarnished his reputable image. Despite his initial denial of any agreement, he confessed later to selling missiles to Iran in return for freeing American captives. It is inconceivable how he disregarded the well-being of innocent people by trading weapons with a terrorist organization.

George H.W. Bush

If the saying ‘the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree’ holds true, then how would George H.W. Bush interpret his son’s command? The senior Bush might not have been the brightest element in the White House, yet his track record was noteworthy.

Possessing a 143 IQ, his style of management was focussed on transforming the United States into a more compassionate, softer nation. Bush also showcased his strength by successfully tackling several hurdles. The most prominent of these were addressing Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait and dealing with the turbulence in Cuba. However, despite his methods, they were insufficient to prevent his eviction from the White House.

William McKinley

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, deserves our admiration because of his impressive IQ of 143.4, which makes him a worthy addition to our list.

McKinley’s presidency, characterized by his vehement endorsement of the gold standard, provided a much-needed boost to the US economy. Rapid industrial advancements transpired during his tenure, leading to a definitive end to the Depression of the 1890s. Notably, McKinley is recognized as the third US president to be assassinated. The impactful loss triggered Congress to pass legislation making the responsibility of safeguarding the president a duty of the Secret Service.

James K. Polk

James K. Polk shares an IQ score of 143.4 with McKinley. Polk is often considered one of the most effective presidents during the period before the Civil War. Despite being designated as the “dark horse” candidate during his race for presidency, Polk proved to be an excellent selection, effecting genuine alterations in the United States through adjustments in territorial conflicts, financial strategy, and banking.

He extended the frontiers of America, maintained a peaceful relationship with the United Kingdom, and successfully led the country during the Mexican-American War. Polk honored his pledge to serve only one term as president due to the toll leadership took on his health. In point of fact, an impressive Intellectual Quotient doesn’t automatically equate to an increased capacity for handling intense stress and pressure.

Grover Cleveland

Grover Cleveland, one of the most intriguing figures to occupy the presidency, was known not just for his impressive 144 IQ, but for the remarkable achievement of being elected for two terms. However, his tenure was not without challenges and controversies.

Is there anyone capable of explaining the apparent close correlation between IQ and controversy? Asks you if you’d marry your own daughter, and if you responded with an immediate, uncompromising “no,” we’re completely on board with you. Yet, Cleveland didn’t perceive it as problematic. He tied the knot with his adopted daughter, who was 21 years of age and had been under his care since she was 11. She went on to become the youngest first lady in history.

Richard Nixon

Richard Nixon remains one of the most debated figures in American presidential history. Despite his relatively high IQ of 142.9, his presidency underlines the fact that intelligence does not always equate to effectiveness in the highest office in the land. Nixon purportedly tried to eliminate a journalist who was poised to divulge his connection to the notorious Watergate scandal, reportedly planning to expose him to large quantities of LSD. A subsequent inquiry into the Watergate scandal confirmed that the perpetrators of the break-in were indeed linked to Nixon.

As a result, charges were brought against 69 government representatives, leading to the downfall of many individuals who enjoyed Nixon’s deep trust. What about Nixon himself? He took the necessary steps to dodge impeachment, stepping down from his role in 1974.

Dwight Eisenhower

As the 34th president of the United States, Dwight Eisenhower left an indelible impact and is celebrated as one of America’s most esteemed leaders. His remarkable intelligence, demonstrated by his IQ of 145.1, contributed significantly to creating an impressive list of accomplishments. These include the establishment of NASA and interstate highways, proving his effective application of smarts. Beyond his political career, Eisenhower also had notable passion for golf and he was an accomplished artist, producing more than 250 pieces of art throughout his life.

The sole issue he encountered within the confines of the White House was battling its resident squirrels. These tiny animals irritated him to a point where he demanded that they be exterminated. Regardless, the Secret Service, in a secretive collaboration with the groundskeepers, opted instead to capture and release the nuisances at Rock Creek Park.

Benjamin Harrison

Referred to as “Little Ben” due to his smaller than average height, Benjamin Harrison served as the 23rd President of the United States. Despite his height, Harrison played a crucial role in forming the US’s foreign policy. However, this bright man had a peculiar fear – electricity, which tended to make Mr. Harrison a bit anxious.

Although Harrison was frightened, his presidential era laid the groundwork for advances in electrical conduction. It was he who advocated for the initiation of electric lighting within the White House. Paradoxically, he wouldn’t use these lights as he was afraid of the electrical current they carried.

George Washington

Introducing Sir George Washington, the inaugural President of the United States, boasting an impressive IQ of 140. His most spectacular feats were his military victories and his distinct talent for lighting up the dance floor.

Washington, aside from being a former president, was also one of the leading distillers in America back then. After his presidency, he grew tired of his idle life at Mount Vernon mansion, prompting him to venture into the liquor industry, where he was able to produce 11,000 gallons of raw whiskey. Who would have thought that he had such a penchant for alcohol production?

Martin Van Buren

The United States’ 8th president was Van Buren, known as the Democratic Party’s creator. His impressive intellectual ability, indicated by an IQ of 146, might have led to high expectations for innovative policies and exceptional leadership, but regrettably, his contributions were minimal. Known by the less than complimentary moniker “Martin Van Ruin”, it should be evident that his tenure was far from successful. His successor was William Henry Harrison, with both presidencies ending in drama. Despite their high intelligence quotients, Van Buren and Harrison are generally viewed as letdowns for the nation and its populace.

Rutherford B. Hayes

Rutherford B. Hayes is yet another unforeseen candidate who is largely recognized for his election rather than his time in office. It’s puzzling why he didn’t accomplish more, given his impressive IQ of 146.3. In 1876, Hayes emerged victorious, largely due to his Civil War heroism. Despite the electorate favoring Democrat Samuel Tilden, Hayes fell behind in the electoral vote count. However, due to a constitutional loophole, Hayes was able to secure the presidency. While he isn’t widely discussed in the US, he holds the status of a national hero in Paraguay.

The people of Paraguay are deeply indebted to him due to his peripheral involvement in a boundary disagreement between Argentina and Paraguay. As a result of Hayes’ intervention, they were able to regain 60 percent of their territory.

William Henry Harrison

At the age of 67, William Henry Harrison became the oldest individual to be elected president at the time, and also the first to pass away while in office. Unfortunately, his death in office is what he is often most remembered for, rather than his achievements. His tenure lasted merely 31 days before he succumbed to pneumonia.

Ironically, the president who served the shortest time in the White House was also the one who gave the longest inauguration speech. Yes, it was Harrison, who made a speech that lasted an hour and 45 minutes on a cold March morning in 1841. It’s said that the chill he caught that day developed into the severe pneumonia that led to his demise.

Franklin Pierce

Despite boasting an impressive IQ of 147.4, Franklin Pierce’s presidency was far from exceptional. Many considered him to be a politician with minimal skills. His endorsement of the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Act led to his unflattering reputation, as this move ignited the onset of the Civil War.

It has been reiterated that having a high IQ isn’t a guaranteed indicator of exceptional performance in the White House. The US didn’t necessitate his regressive political ideals, especially during such a critical period in its history.

James A. Garfield

Even though James Garfield had an impressive IQ of 152.3, he was unfortunately ousted from office. His tenure as a US President wasn’t marked with significant achievements or a standout legacy. His IQ showcased his potential for nation governance, however, he wasn’t given the chance to fully demonstrate it.

Garfield’s tenure as America’s leader was a brief 6 months and 15 days. Despite his short service, he remains a significant figure in the country’s history. However, it’s intriguing to consider what could have been achieved if his intelligence had been utilized more effectively.

John Tyler

The U.S.’s 10th President, John Tyler, who possessed an intelligent quotient of 148, succeeded to the position following Harrison’s short-lived, yet fatal term. The circumstances of his ascension earned him the title, “His Accidency”, as there wasn’t a planned succession after Harrison’s demise. Ever the opportunist, audacious Tyler managed to locate a judge to officiate his swearing-in as president.

His integration of Texas and connection of Florida to the Union surge set the stage for the forthcoming civil discord. Ultimately, all Tyler demonstrated was that he was among those “intelligent” individuals who had a tendency towards conflict.

John Adams

John Adams, with his impressive IQ of 155, is most notably recognized for his significant contributions as an extraordinary political thinker. As the second president of the United States, he was also one of the country’s founding fathers. He left an indelible imprint on U.S. history by utilizing his intelligence in drafting the Constitution and playing a vital role in concluding the Revolutionary War.

Even though he had an exceptionally high IQ, John Quincy Adams demonstrated that he was intellectually and physically superior to his father. On the other hand, his father, John Adams Senior, lived a remarkably long life, passing away at the age of 90.

Millard Fillmore

Possessing a high IQ of 149, Millard Filmore was, nevertheless, governed by his personal desires. He was captivated by Abigail Powers to such an extent that he proposed to her, a proposal that she accepted. Yet, it appears that his concentration geared more towards his romantic interest than national concerns. This focus arguably contributed to his presidency leading the nation towards the Civil War.

Similar to other intelligent presidents, Fillmore is recognized as one of the least efficient leaders in American history. Should we delve deeper into this controversial topic?

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Franklin D. Roosevelt is undoubtedly one of the most esteemed presidents in American history. The country is greatly indebted to him for his four remarkable terms in office, which were characterized by notable accomplishments such as his revolutionary “New Deal” reforms, social programs, and his handling of World War II.

FDR, with his remarkable intelligence quotient of 150.5, left behind an incredible legacy through his numerous accomplishments. However, his tenure was not without controversy. Notably, he was at the center of a major scandal when he engaged in an extra-marital affair with Lucy Mercer, his wife’s social secretary, who turned out to be irresistible to him.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was also high on the list, boasting an impressive IQ of 150. He was as well-known as he was gifted intellectually. In an era when obtaining an education was challenging, Lincoln’s personal journey and climb to a governmental position were sincerely extraordinary. In 1863, he signed the Emancipation Proclamation, a decision which resulted in the liberation of countless slaves.

His exceptional intelligence is evident in his Second Inaugural Address, which is also inscribed on the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The inscription says: “Without resentment for anyone; with kindness for all; with steadfastness in what is right, as God allows us to discern the right, let us work towards completing the task we are involved in…”

Chester Arthur

Chester Arthur, recognized as one of the brightest US presidents due to his IQ of 152.3, effectively utilized his intellectual strengths in his roles as a lawyer and politician. Following the untimely death of James Garfield, Arthur assumed the highest office.

Unfortunately, Arthur’s tenure as president didn’t live up to the expectations that many had of him. It appears that his reputation is more attributed to his accomplishments before his presidency rather than his time in office.

Theodore Roosevelt

Following the murder of William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, who was then only 42 years old, became the youngest president in the history of America. Roosevelt’s robust policies and energy rendered him a powerful presence.

Would you dare to test the mental prowess of someone with an intelligence quotient of 153? Here’s a captivating fact: Theodore Roosevelt, while studying at Harvard University, developed an interest in boxing, a hobby he thoroughly enjoyed and carried on during his tenure in the White House. A combination of a highly intelligent mind and a physically fit body- intriguing, isn’t it?

Woodrow Wilson

Get acquainted with Woodrow Wilson, a pivotal personality who guided the United States through the most significant war in the world’s history. With an incredible IQ score of 155.2, Wilson fulfilled his presidential duties from 1913 till 1921.

He passionately championed global peace and continues to be recognized as one of the most influential presidents in American history. His historical contribution is best remembered through his “Fourteen Points” peace proposal and his significant involvement in the drafting of the Treaty of Versailles. His profound intellect undoubtedly enhanced his progressive ideas, expertise, and pragmatic methodology.

Jimmy Carter Jr.

James Earl Carter, Jr., a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is a noteworthy addition to our roster of intelligent U.S. presidents, boasting an impressive IQ of 156.8. Though his aspirations of cultivating a nation that embodies both competence and empathy were praiseworthy, they were, unfortunately, a bit utopian for the time.

He strongly advocated for human rights and we admire him for that. Yet, his extraordinary intellect sometimes seemed beyond the ordinary. Following a conference in Georgia in 1976, he made claims of witnessing UFOs. What’s your opinion – is there a chance his sighting was genuine?

James Madison

James Madison undoubtedly earns his spot on this list. Having an impressive IQ of 160, Madison is commonly referred to as the Constitution’s Father. He held the position of secretary of state during Jefferson’s term and made remarkable contributions to the history of the United States.

Madison, unlike those who followed him, modestly declared that the Constitution wasn’t merely “the product of one mind,” but rather “the effort of numerous minds and multiple hands.” For this, sir, our gratitude cannot be sufficiently expressed.

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson, who penned the Declaration of Independence, was distinguished as one of the American presidents with the highest IQ, measuring at 160. His deep appreciation for French food was evident when, after serving as a Foreign Minister in France, he urged his 19-year-old cook to master French culinary arts.

Jefferson was known for throwing extravagant feasts, with a focus on French cuisine. Beyond his appreciation for gourmet food, Jefferson fortunately diverged from the norm. Utilizing his exceptional intelligence, he made significant positive impacts during his presidency.

John Quincy Adams

John Quincy Adams secured the distinguished position as the most intelligent President in US history. Holding an impressive IQ of 175, Adams had the necessary aptitude to implement major transformations. His progressive attitudes towards issues like slavery and free speech should forever be acknowledged and appreciated.

Despite being an esteemed individual, Adams wasn’t as efficient as he potentially could have been. Regardless of his skills in seven languages and his notable intelligence, Adams opted to focus more on his daily routines of skinny-dipping, thus neglecting the necessities of the country.

Barack Obama

Obama’s intelligence quotient (IQ) hasn’t been publicly confirmed, however, his 8-year presidency was characterized by significant transformations. As the first African American chosen as the President of the United States, Barack Obama demonstrated determination and thoughtfulness, culminating in the elimination of ruthless terrorists, including Osama bin Laden. Obama devoted himself tirelessly to the cause of global peace and the protection of his country.

Obama represented a refreshing change for the masses compared to his presidential predecessors. His authentic Americanness and middle-class background resonated with many. These qualities, notwithstanding his intelligence quotient, made him an impactful leader.