21. Benjamin Harrison –IQ score: 132.15
Benjamin Harrison, America’s 23rd president (1889–1893), was a man of many hats: a skilled lawyer, a dedicated church leader, and a seasoned politician from Indiana. His rise to the presidency was built on a foundation of hard work and civic engagement, proving that quiet determination can lead to the highest office in the land. As president, Harrison made significant strides, including establishing the national forest reserves—a forward-thinking move that laid the groundwork for modern conservation efforts. He also oversaw the admission of six western states to the Union, expanding the nation’s footprint, and bolstered the Navy, setting the stage for America’s future as a global power. However, his presidency wasn’t without its struggles.
Harrison faced challenges in securing education funding and enforcing voting rights for African-Americans, issues that would take decades to address. By the end of his term, his approval ratings had dipped due to a sharp increase in federal spending, a reminder that even well-intentioned policies can have unintended consequences. Harrison’s legacy is a testament to the complexities of leadership. While not without flaws, his contributions to conservation and national growth endure, proving that even in the face of setbacks, a president’s work can leave a lasting impact. After all, as Harrison’s story shows, nobody ever said being president was easy!
