Presidents Day is the perfect time to celebrate the leaders who helped shape America. But let’s be honest, some of them had seriously legendary beards! While most U.S. Presidents have opted for the clean-shaven look, five brave men rocked full beards while running the country. So, let’s dive into the history of these bearded commanders-in-chief and explore how their facial hair became part of their legacy.

1. Abraham Lincoln (1861–1865) – The OG Bearded President

Before Honest Abe grew his famous beard, he was just another clean-shaven politician. But thanks to an 11-year-old girl named Grace Bedell, who suggested he’d look more “distinguished” with a beard, Lincoln took the advice and never looked back. His iconic look became a symbol of strength and wisdom, exactly what the country needed during the Civil War. Moral of the story? Never underestimate the power of good beard advice.

2. Ulysses S. Grant (1869–1877) – The War Hero Beard

Grant didn’t just lead the Union Army to victory in the Civil War, he also led the charge in presidential beard game. His thick, rugged beard added to his no-nonsense image, making him look every bit the battle-tested war hero. While his presidency had its ups and downs (including some major political scandals), his legendary beard remained steadfast.

3. Rutherford B. Hayes (1877–1881) – The Full Commitment Beard

Hayes didn’t do beards halfway, he went all in. His full, bushy beard gave him a look of wisdom and authority, helping to solidify his reputation as a principled leader. Though his presidency was marked by the controversial end of Reconstruction, there’s no denying that his facial hair game was on point.

4. James A. Garfield (1881) – The Scholar’s Beard

Garfield’s beard was as impressive as his resume, he was a scholar, war hero, and eloquent speaker. His full, thick beard gave him an air of intellectual authority. Sadly, his time as president was cut short when he was assassinated just months into his term. But in his brief tenure, his passion for civil rights and reform (and his beard) left a lasting mark.

5. Benjamin Harrison (1889–1893) – The Last of the Bearded Presidents

The last bearded president to date, Benjamin Harrison carried on the tradition with a well-groomed, dignified look. His presidency was known for economic reforms and modernizing the U.S. Navy, but let’s not overlook his contribution to the beard legacy. After him, the clean-shaven look took over, marking the end of an era.

Where Did the Presidential Beards Go?

After Harrison, beards in the White House became extinct. Why? The early 20th century brought a shift toward a more “polished” and “modern” image, especially with the rise of photography and mass media. Apparently, the clean-shaven look was seen as more professional, but let’s be real, they just didn’t have access to premium beard oil.

Celebrating the Bearded Presidents This Presidents Day

So, what can we learn from these bearded leaders? First, history proves that a great beard can make you look wise, strong, and downright presidential. Second, if you’re rocking a beard yourself, take some inspiration from these legends and keep it well-groomed.

This Presidents Day, let’s raise a toast to Lincoln, Grant, Hayes, Garfield, and Harrison, the fearless leaders who weren’t afraid to embrace the beard. And if you want to channel your inner presidential style, make sure to keep your beard looking sharp with high-quality, all-natural beard care products. Because if history has taught us anything, a well-groomed beard never goes out of style!