55 Presidential Trivia Questions

The history of U.S. Presidents is filled with fascinating stories, unique facts, and defining moments that have shaped the nation. From the origins of the presidency to the quirks and achievements of those who have held the office, these leaders have left a lasting impact on the country.

This collection of 55 presidential trivia questions covers everything from historic firsts and important legislation to lesser-known anecdotes and presidential pastimes. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about America’s leaders, this trivia is sure to entertain and educate.

General Presidential Facts

Who was the first American-born President?
Answer: Martin Van Buren.

Which President made Christmas a national holiday?
Answer: Ulysses S. Grant.

Who was the only President to serve non-consecutive terms?
Answer: Grover Cleveland.

Which President was a classically trained pianist?
Answer: Richard Nixon.

Who was the first President to live in the White House?
Answer: John Adams.

Unique Presidential Facts

Which President had a pet raccoon named Rebecca?
Answer: Calvin Coolidge.

Who was the first President to have written a biography of another President?
Answer: Herbert Hoover (wrote a biography of Woodrow Wilson).

Which President had turned down offers to play professional football?
Answer: Gerald Ford.

Who was the only bachelor President?
Answer: James Buchanan.

Which President added a bowling alley to the White House?
Answer: Harry S. Truman.

Presidential Firsts

Who was the first President to be impeached?
Answer: Andrew Johnson.

Which President was the first to travel abroad while in office?
Answer: Theodore Roosevelt.

Who was the first President to appear on television?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Which President was the first to have a telephone in the White House?
Answer: Rutherford B. Hayes.

Who was the first President to attend baseball’s opening day and throw the ceremonial first pitch?
Answer: William Howard Taft.

Historical Events

Which President signed the act creating the United States Marine Band?
Answer: John Adams.

Which President signed legislation to create the Social Security system?
Answer: Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Who was the President during the signing of NAFTA?
Answer: Bill Clinton.

Which President was in office during the September 11, 2001 attacks?
Answer: George W. Bush.

Which President established the League of Nations?
Answer: Woodrow Wilson.

Fun Facts

Which President was an accomplished violinist?
Answer: Thomas Jefferson.

Who was the first President born outside the continental United States?
Answer: Barack Obama (born in Hawaii).

Which President was a licensed bartender?
Answer: Abraham Lincoln.

Which President had a swimming pool installed in the White House?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Who was the President that turned down a Supreme Court appointment?
Answer: John Quincy Adams.

War and Peace

Which President was a general during the Civil War?
Answer: Ulysses S. Grant.

Who was the President during World War I?
Answer: Woodrow Wilson.

Which President ordered the atomic bomb dropped on Japan?
Answer: Harry S. Truman.

Who was the President during the Cuban Missile Crisis?
Answer: John F. Kennedy.

Which President signed the Camp David Accords?
Answer: Jimmy Carter.

Presidential Elections

Which President won the largest number of electoral votes in a single election?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Who was the first President elected by the House of Representatives?
Answer: Thomas Jefferson.

Which President was elected four times?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Who was the first President to participate in a televised debate?
Answer: John F. Kennedy.

Which President lost the popular vote but won the electoral vote in 2000?
Answer: George W. Bush.

Presidential Quotes

Who said, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself”?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Which President stated, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country”?
Answer: John F. Kennedy.

Who declared, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”?
Answer: Ronald Reagan.

Which President said, “I am not a crook”?
Answer: Richard Nixon.

Who coined the term “Speak softly and carry a big stick”?
Answer: Theodore Roosevelt.

Interesting Presidential Moments

Which President had a pet alligator?
Answer: John Quincy Adams.

Which President received a Siamese cat as a gift?
Answer: Rutherford B. Hayes.

Which President had a passion for collecting stamps?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Who was the only President to resign from office?
Answer: Richard Nixon.

Which President signed the act that established Yellowstone as the first national park?
Answer: Ulysses S. Grant.

White House and Lifestyle

Which President hosted the first Easter Egg Roll at the White House?
Answer: Rutherford B. Hayes.

Who was the first President to light the national Christmas tree on the White House lawn?
Answer: Calvin Coolidge.

Which President was known for his fireside chats?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Who was the first President to have a pet dog in the White House?
Answer: John Adams.

Which President had a horse named “Old Whitey”?
Answer: Zachary Taylor.

Miscellaneous

Who was the only President to have served on the Supreme Court?
Answer: William Howard Taft.

Which President was the tallest?
Answer: Abraham Lincoln.

Who was the shortest President?
Answer: James Madison.

Which President had the nickname “Old Hickory”?
Answer: Andrew Jackson.

Who was the first President to be assassinated?
Answer: Abraham Lincoln.

The history of the U.S. Presidency is a rich tapestry of memorable events, unique personalities, and defining moments. This list of 55 presidential trivia questions provides a glimpse into the lives and legacies of the individuals who have led the nation. From historic milestones to intriguing personal stories, these questions highlight the diverse and complex nature of America’s highest office. Whether you’re an avid history enthusiast or just looking to test your knowledge, this trivia offers an engaging journey through the annals of presidential history.