January 20, 2025, marked a historic moment for Ohio as J.D. Vance, the newly inaugurated Vice President of the United States, took the oath of office. The Appalachian author and former Senator from Ohio joined a long line of influential leaders from the Buckeye State.
But did you know that Ohio is already famous for producing presidents? With J.D. Vance stepping into the vice presidency, it’s time to take a look at the history of presidents and vice presidents who called Ohio home.
Ohio: The Mother of Presidents
Ohio is often referred to as the “Mother of Presidents” because seven U.S. presidents were born in the state. That’s more than any other state except Virginia! Here’s the list:
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William Henry Harrison (9th President)
- Born in Virginia but considered an Ohio president because he lived in North Bend.
- Known for his incredibly short term—just 31 days before he passed away.
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Ulysses S. Grant (18th President)
- A Civil War hero from Point Pleasant, Ohio.
- Led the country through Reconstruction after the war.
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Rutherford B. Hayes (19th President)
- From Delaware, Ohio.
- His election was so close it led to the Compromise of 1877.
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James A. Garfield (20th President)
- Born in Orange, Ohio.
- Tragically assassinated just months into his presidency.
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Benjamin Harrison (23rd President)
- Born in North Bend, Ohio, like his grandfather William Henry Harrison.
- Remembered for his focus on economic modernization.
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William McKinley (25th President)
- From Niles, Ohio.
- Guided the country through the Spanish-American War before being assassinated in 1901.
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William Howard Taft (27th President)
- Born in Cincinnati, Ohio.
- The only president to also serve as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
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Warren G. Harding (29th President)
- From Blooming Grove, Ohio.
- Known for his “return to normalcy” campaign after World War I.
J.D. Vance: Ohio’s Vice Presidential Legacy
While J.D. Vance is the first Ohioan to serve as Vice President, his rise to this role cements the state’s reputation as a powerhouse of political talent.
Vance is best known for his bestselling memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, which shed light on the struggles of working-class families in Appalachia. His political career began with a U.S. Senate seat, where he gained attention for his focus on economic issues and rural revitalization.
Why Does Ohio Produce So Many Leaders?
Ohio’s political influence comes from its history and geography. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ohio was a growing industrial and agricultural hub. Its location in the heart of the Midwest made it a crossroads of American politics and culture.
Today, Ohio remains a state with a mix of urban and rural communities, making it a bellwether for national trends.