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How Many US Presidents Had Brown Eyes?

Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 31,472
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Eye color might be a factor in the success of a US presidential candidate. Less than 17% of people in the United States have blue eyes, but all but six of the first 43 presidents are believed to have had blue or gray eyes. Only five — Richard Nixon, Lyndon B. Johnson, Chester A. Arthur, Andrew Johnson and John Quincy Adams — had brown eyes. Nobody is quite sure as to why this is, although some people have suggested that blue eyes might be considered more attractive than brown, black or hazel eyes. It is important to note that there is a wide range of eye colors, and when it comes to presidents who served before color photography, their exact eye colors are not easy to determine.

More on eye color:

  • Blue eyes are more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet light because they have less melanin than darker-colored eyes.

  • A baby's irises gain pigment from the time they are born until they are about 9 months old. That is why many Caucasian newborns have blue or gray eyes that eventually turn brown or hazel.

  • Actress Elizabeth Taylor was often said to have purple or violet eyes, though they were actually just deep blue eyes that appeared purple with the right makeup. Taylor's eyes were extraordinary for another reason: She had a genetic mutation that caused her to have double rows of eyelashes.

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Lainie Petersen
By Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an editor. With a unique educational background, she crafts engaging content and hosts podcasts and radio shows, showcasing her versatility as a media and communication professional. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any media organization.
Discussion Comments
By anon1004609 — On Mar 15, 2021

And Barack Obama makes 6 who had brown eyes.

By anon1002091 — On Sep 04, 2019

I think blue is the most common eye color amongst anglos, which I think explains it. Also, as for the idea that blue eyes get elected because they're better looking, take a look at some of the presidents. A presidential election clearly isn't a beauty contest.

By anon995747 — On May 22, 2016

I recently read that people with blue eyes are more competitive. Maybe that's a factor.

By anon994074 — On Jan 11, 2016

Actually, most Americans were blue-eyed up until the 20th century sometime.

By Gurenda — On Jan 31, 2013

It wouldn't be because blue eyes are generally considered an Aryan feature, showing in this context that the American population has been rather racially inclined in its voting history?

Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an...
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