13 Most Divisive Us Presidents, Ranked by Political Scientists

Exploring the role of US presidents, we examine the 13 most divisive among them according to political scientists, analyzing their backgrounds, presidency, and controversies.

Lyndon B. Johnson

LBJ, 36th US President (1963-1969), implemented social reforms, civil rights laws, and anti-poverty programs. He's also known for his controversial role in the Vietnam War.

John Adams

John Adams, second U.S. president (1797-1801), faced challenges including difficult relations with France and domestic political division. His contentious Alien and Sedition Acts led to electoral defeat.

Richard Nixon

Nixon was the 37th U.S. President from 1969-74, remembered for opening relations with China, environmental laws, and the Watergate scandal. His actions sparked outrage and divided the nation.

James Buchanan

James Buchanan, the 15th US President (1857-1861), faced a presidency dominated by the slavery issue. His lack of action fueled the divide. Often ranked among the least effective presidents.

Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson, 28th US President (1913-1921), known for progressive policies like the Federal Reserve System and women’s suffrage, was criticized for his World War I actions, including the divisive Espionage and Sedition Acts.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

FDR, 32nd President of the U.S. (1933-1945), is known for leading during the Great Depression and WWII. His New Deal policies were controversial, as were his wartime actions.

Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton, 42nd US President, led a time of economic and tech growth but was marred by personal scandals and political controversy. His affair, impeachment, and policies sparked division.

Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan was the 40th US President (1981-89). His conservative policies such as tax cuts revived the economy, but sparked controversy with issues like AIDS response.

Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln, 16th U.S. President, served from 1861-1865, known for the Civil War & Emancipation Proclamation. His presidency was divisive, with states seceding and North-South tensions escalating.

Barack Obama

Barack Obama, the first African-American U.S. President, served from 2009 to 2017. His agenda included healthcare reform, immigration, and climate policies, but his tenure was marked with political division and controversy.

George W. Bush

George W. Bush, 43rd US President (2001-2009), faced significant events like 9/11 and Iraq War. His actions sparked varied opinions on foreign & domestic issues.

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson, 7th U.S President (1829-1837), expanded democracy but his treatment of Native Americans remains controversial. Read More

Donald Trump

Donald Trump was the US's 45th President (2017-21). His controversial approach and divisive speeches had followers and foes alike. His policies, impeachment trial, and COVID-19 response stirred debate.

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