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Who do you regard as the greatest United States president?
George W. Bush’s rank roughly tracks with his approval ratings — high after the Sept. 11 attacks and lower as the war in Iraq escalated. By contrast, Barack Obama’s modest rise contradicts a decline in his approval ratings since his re-election.
There are now fewer generations who remember Franklin D. Roosevelt leading the country out of the Great Depression and winning World War II, Harry S. Truman’s policies, and the leadership of John F. Kennedy. Historians have also recently written more critically of Kennedy and his handling of issues like civil rights, the Cuban missile crisis and the Vietnam War.
Abraham Lincoln, credited for ending the Civil War and freeing the slaves, has remained exceptionally popular. While George Washington had arguably equal accomplishments — creating the American presidency and getting a new country on its feet — he is a much more austere figure than the relatable Honest Abe.
Ronald Reagan’s rank has risen since he left office; there was a significant increase after his death in 2004, and he remains a hero with most Republicans. Bill Clinton is still a prominent figure for Democrats, some of whom think the relative peace and prosperity enjoyed during his tenure stand in contrast to the more recent wars and economic turmoil.
Other presidents
1961-63
1933-45
2001-09
2009-present
1981-89
1945-53
1861-65
1789-97
1993-2001
No data available
between 1988 and 2000
Obama
G.W. Bush
Truman
Clinton
Washington
F.D. Roosevelt
Lincoln
Reagan
Kennedy
2013
2007
2000
1988
2013
2007
2000
1988
2013
2007
2000
1988
2013
2007
2000
1988
25% responded:
20
15
10
5
0
25%
20
15
10
5
0
25%
20
15
10
5
0
25%
20
15
10
5
0
While textbook writers have been consistent in describing President John F. Kennedy’s charisma and ability to inspire the country, they have become more critical of his handling of issues from civil rights to the Cuban missile crisis and the Vietnam War.
