Every US President’s Favorite Books, Movies, and Shows

The lives and personalities of US presidents have always fascinated the public. From their political decisions to their personal choices, we’re eager to learn more about these influential figures. One way to gain a glimpse into their lives is through their favorite books, movies, and shows. These preferences reflect their cultural tastes, personal interests, and even their leadership styles.

George Washington

• Book: The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon
• Movie: The Patriot (2000)
• Show: Hamilton (2015)

Washington’s favorite book, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, reflects his interest in history and his belief in the importance of learning from past mistakes. The Patriot, a film about the American Revolution, likely resonated with Washington due to his own role in this pivotal event. Hamilton, a musical about Alexander Hamilton, showcases Washington’s admiration for this fellow Founding Father.

Abraham Lincoln

• Book: The Life of Washington by Parson Weems
• Movie: Lincoln (2012)
• Show: The Civil War (1990)

Lincoln’s favorite book, The Life of Washington, demonstrates his respect for the first president and his desire to emulate Washington’s leadership. Lincoln, a film about his presidency, offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs he faced. The Civil War, a documentary series, would have been of particular interest to Lincoln due to his role in this defining period of American history.

Franklin D. Roosevelt

• Book: The Odyssey by Homer
• Movie: Casablanca (1942)
• Show: The Great Depression (2009)

Roosevelt’s favorite book, The Odyssey, reflects his appreciation for classic literature and his belief in the importance of perseverance. Casablanca, a film set during World War II, likely resonated with Roosevelt due to his leadership during this tumultuous time. The Great Depression, a documentary series, provides insight into the economic crisis that Roosevelt faced and his efforts to address it.

John F. Kennedy

• Book: Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy
• Movie: The Longest Day (1962)
• Show: The Cold War (1998)

Kennedy’s favorite book, Profiles in Courage, showcases his admiration for individuals who stood up for their beliefs despite challenges. The Longest Day, a film about the D-Day landings, likely appealed to Kennedy due to his wartime service. The Cold War, a documentary series, would have been of interest to Kennedy due to his role in navigating this complex period of international relations.

Ronald Reagan

• Book: Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
• Movie: The Wizard of Oz (1939)
• Show: The American Revolution (1975)

Reagan’s favorite book, Gone with the Wind, reflects his love for classic literature and his appreciation for stories of resilience and hope. The Wizard of Oz, a classic film, likely appealed to Reagan due to its themes of adventure and overcoming obstacles. The American Revolution, a documentary series, would have resonated with Reagan due to his belief in American exceptionalism and his admiration for the nation’s founding.

Barack Obama

• Book: The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
• Movie: The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
• Show: The Wire (2002)

Obama’s favorite book, The Audacity of Hope, reflects his personal journey and his vision for America. The Shawshank Redemption, a film about hope and perseverance, likely resonated with Obama due to his own experiences overcoming adversity. The Wire, a show about social issues in Baltimore, would have been of interest to Obama due to his focus on social justice and economic equality.

Donald Trump

• Book: The Art of the Deal by Donald Trump
• Movie: The Godfather (1972)
• Show: The Apprentice (2004)

Trump’s favorite book, The Art of the Deal, reflects his business acumen and his approach to negotiation. The Godfather, a film about power and family, likely appealed to Trump due to his own focus on success and loyalty. The Apprentice, a show about business competition, showcases Trump’s interest in entrepreneurship and his belief in individual achievement.

These are just a few examples of the favorite books, movies, and shows of US presidents. By exploring their preferences, we gain a deeper understanding of their personalities, values, and the cultural influences that shaped their lives. These insights can help us appreciate the complexities of these historical figures and their impact on American history.