The Unexpected Intelligence Rankings Of 30 Influential Historical Figures

As you may know, intelligence takes various forms, but an IQ score of 140+ usually means you’re in the genius club. And boy, are there some big names among the bunch! From legendary scientists and philosophers to A-list celebs like Madonna, this list of brilliant minds will blow your mind! 

With brains, braun, and a movie star smile, Schwarzenegger is a household name. From Mr. Universe to Terminator, the Austrian-born icon has won against every challenge in his path. Even during his time as a governor, he was able to prove that with determination and intelligence, anything is possible.

According to CBS News, Hawk’s 144 IQ places him in the top 0.1% of the population. Thus, it’s no wonder he has been able to make such a deep impact on the world of skateboarding and beyond. Hawk is living proof that brains, along with skills, take one to greater heights.

With an IQ of 150, Graham’s instinct was as sharp as her dance moves. To date, her keen mind and signature dance moves continue to inspire generations of dancers. 

As the network’s CEO and co-founder, Zuckerberg has revolutionized both the tech and business worlds, making him a multi-billionaire in the process. According to IQTest, Zuckerberg’s impressive IQ score of 152, along with his innovative mind, makes it apparent that he will continue to shape the future of tech and beyond. 

His passion for business and marketing made him an icon and a brand in his own right. According to Celebrity IQs, his estimated score of 154 proves that his strategic mind played a significant role in his success. 

Aside from fame and glamor, the star was also a brilliant inventor whose works laid the ground for modern Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies. With an IQ of 154, Lamarr’s intelligence was as remarkable as her beauty. Her legacy remains an inspiration to today’s inventors. 

With an IQ of 155, as reported by IQTest, Musk’s ability to think outside of the box has led to the most groundbreaking inventions of our time. Despite the numerous obstacles and setbacks, he continues to push forward his vision for a better future. 

His numerous contributions to science and technology include the development of the wireless transmission of energy, the Tesla coil, and his most famous, the AC motor.

Although different sources claimed that his IQ might have been as high as 200, a more accurate estimate puts him at a still-impressive 160. So, when next you find yourself wondering about the effects of 2001: A Space Odyssey or the memorable A Clockwork Orange, remember it was all thanks to Kubrick. 

Well, with this score, it’s no wonder that her determination drove her to challenge the patriarchal norms and advocate for women’s rights. Her seminal work, “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman,” laid the foundation for the feminist movement. 

According to IQTest, Dickens’ score is estimated to be an impressive 165. This is probably why he was able to create such complex characters and vivid settings, two great aspects of storytelling and literature. 

His theories on black holes challenged our knowledge of the universe. With these ideas, he earned worldwide acclaim, even inspiring an appearance on The Simpsons. With an estimated IQ estimated ranging from 160 to a staggering 170, it is no surprise that Hawking was such a remarkable force, despite being diagnosed with a debilitating motor neuron disease. 

However, Brontë was more than just a literary genius. As a woman in a male-dominated society, she paved the way for other female writers to follow her lead. With an IQ score of 165, according to Geni, it’s no surprise that her works still capture the minds of readers. To date, her influence still reflects in the work of some female writers. 

But, it was his intellect that truly set him apart, with an IQ of 170. Thanks to Carl’s immeasurable impact on science, his legacy remains an inspiration to modern science communicators.

With an IQ of 170, according to Reader’s Digest, Polgár’s brilliance on the board is top-notch. Also, she has secured her spot as the greatest female chess player of all time. Don’t miss out on the legacy of this chess prodigy!

However, it wasn’t just his paintings that made him a legend. He also produced remarkable ceramics, sculpture, and even writing. It’s no wonder then that Picasso’s IQ was off the charts. According to Geni, he had an IQ of 175. His mind was indeed a cut above the rest, and it showed in his works. 

Kant’s intelligence was exceptional, with an estimated IQ of 175 according to Celebrity IQs. His formidable intellect is why he was able to tackle complex philosophical problems that still baffle scholars today.  

But his stunning paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel may be what made him more famous. It is no surprise that the website, Finances Online, estimated Michelangelo’s IQ to be a mind-blowing 177. 

His concepts and theses have stood the test of time, making him a famous historical figure. According to Finances Online, Descartes had an IQ score of 176. This is proof of his exceptional intellect and analytical mind.

However, with her eloquence in over ten languages and knowledge of mathematics and astronomy, she was a true scholar. According to Reader’s Digest, her IQ is estimated to be around 180, should it be measured in recent times.

Of course, she couldn’t achieve such as feat without a sharp mind. Speaking of her IQ, Reader’s Digest reveals that it could have been anywhere from 180 to 200. Curie’s legacy as an intelligent scientist is an inspiration to generations to pursue their passions and make groundbreaking findings. 

He changed the way we understand the universe through his telescope invention, but clearly, his accomplishments extended well beyond this. According to FinancesOnline, Galilei’s IQ, estimated at 182, speaks to the outstanding depth of his brilliance.

Additionally, he also helped design the world’s first electronic computer. With an IQ score of 185, Turing’s brilliance continues to inspire and influence modern computer scientists. 

According to Geni, his IQ was an impressive 185. This figure allowed him to view the world in a different way and approach problems with an innovative mind.  

His influence is still felt today, as his societal, psychological, and cultural ideas persist to inspire modern-day philosophers. With an IQ of 190, as estimated by Geni, Nietzsche’s perspective and distinct intellect set him apart as a true genius of his time. 

Reader’s Digest notes that Newton’s IQ would have been between 190 and 200 if measured today. Overall, you can tell that Newton’s legacy is proof of his phenomenal intellect. 

But just how intelligent was he? Business Insider notes that Einstein’s IQ should be between the range of 205-225, putting him in a league of his own.

It is no wonder that his mind was unique, with an estimated IQ of 210 by Reader’s Digest. This score shows Shakespare’s place as not only a literary legend but a true intellectual bigwig. 

With his mastery of numerous fields, it is no surprise Reader’s Digest estimates his IQ to have gone as far as 220. Of course, this should not catch you by surprise, considering his achievements during his lifetime.