39. Thomas Jefferson
A true Renaissance man, Thomas Jefferson’s intellect shaped the foundation of the United States. As the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, he enshrined the nation’s core principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Jefferson’s presidency doubled the size of the country with the Louisiana Purchase. His contributions to architecture, education (founding the University of Virginia), and philosophy cement his legacy as one of America’s foremost founding fathers.
midjourney