Lesson Summary
Deciding who the worst presidents are isn’t as simple as it might seem. Different people use different criteria—economic success, moral character, popularity, or even height! But are these fair ways to judge a president? The best way to assess a president’s performance is to look at what the Constitution actually says a president should do.
The oath of office makes it clear: a president must execute the duties of the office and defend the Constitution. Article II of the Constitution outlines these duties, including leading the military, appointing officials, issuing pardons, making treaties, and overseeing the executive branch. Beyond that, a president is also responsible for protecting the nation’s interests—while ideally avoiding unnecessary foreign entanglements.
Ironically, one of the most important things a president can do is simply not overstep. Many presidents, especially in modern times, believe they need to take action for the “greater good,” often expanding their power beyond constitutional limits. This power creep is what lands some presidents on a list of the worst.
In this series, we’ll explore eight presidents who failed in their constitutional duties. They’ll fall into four categories: three of the worst overall, one who played the role of a villain, two from the current millennium, and even two who are carved into Mount Rushmore. Get ready to look at history with a critical eye.
