The Most Famous Person in Virginia, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the person you think is the most famous!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 07:12

In the heart of Virginia, the stories of notable individuals have always woven through the state’s rich history like threads in a grand tapestry. Knowing who currently captures the interest of the public not only connects us with the present but also highlights the ongoing narrative of cultural and social evolution in the region. This dynamic listing reflects real-time public opinion, changing as new votes are cast, ensuring the ranking remains as current as the latest buzz. By participating, you influence the list, potentially altering the course of what's trending, giving you a direct hand in shaping the cultural landscape of Virginia.

Who Is the Most Famous Person in Virginia?

1

76
votes
Gilbert Stuart · Public domain

George Washington

George Washington is as the first president of the United States, Washington's legacy and influence on American history is well-known and celebrated. He was also born in Virginia, making him a significant figure in the state's history.
George Washington was the first President of the United States, serving two terms from 1789 to 1797. He is widely regarded as one of the most beloved and influential Presidents in American history.

Term Length: Served two terms from 1789 to 1797

Party Affiliation: Independent/Nonpartisan

Predecessor: Office established, no predecessor

Successor: John Adams

Born: February 22, 1732
George Washington in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous army general
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Freemason
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous war hero
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous father
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous Federalist
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Pisces person
2

25
votes
Rembrandt Peale · Public domain

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson is another founding father and former president, Jefferson was also born in Virginia and is known for his contributions to American politics and the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.
Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States, serving from 1801 to 1809. He was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a key figure in the early development of the nation. Jefferson was known for his roles as a statesman, philosopher, architect, diplomat, and writer.

Date of Birth: April 13, 1743

Date of Death: July 4, 1826

Political Party: Democratic-Republican

Occupation: Politician, Lawyer, Planter

Key Achievements: Declaration of Independence, Louisiana Purchase
Thomas Jefferson in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Thomas
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Secretary of State
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular character from Hamilton
3

30
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author; Restored by Yann Forget and Adam Cuerden · Public domain

Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe - one of America's most celebrated writers, Poe was born in Boston but spent much of his life in Virginia, where he wrote many of his most famous works.
Edgar Allan Poe in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous short story writer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous author of Gothic literature
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous grave-digger
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous alcoholic
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous American author
4

30
votes
Julian Vannerson · Public domain

Robert E. Lee

Robert E. Lee is a prominent Confederate general during the Civil War, Lee is a controversial figure but is still widely recognized and discussed in Virginia and beyond.
Robert E. Lee in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Robert
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous army general
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous war hero
5

13
votes

Unknown author · Public domain

Patsy Cline

Patsy Cline is a country music icon, Cline was born and raised in Winchester, Virginia and is still celebrated by fans of the genre today.
6

17
votes
Bogaerts, Rob / Anefo · CC BY-SA 3.0 nl

Arthur Ashe

Arthur Ashe is a tennis player and civil rights activist, Ashe was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and is remembered for his contributions to both sports and social justice.
Arthur Ashe is a tennis stadium located in Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York City. It is part of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The stadium is named after the African American tennis player Arthur Ashe.

Location: Flushing Meadows, Queens, New York City

Capacity: 23,771

Surface: DecoTurf

Year Opened: 1997

Cost: $254 million
Arthur Ashe in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Arthur
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person with AIDS
7

12
votes

Sally Hemings

Sally Hemings is a slave owned by Thomas Jefferson, Hemings has gained more recognition in recent years as her story and legacy have been explored by historians and writers.
8

5
votes
Atlantic Records · CC BY-SA 4.0

Missy Elliott

Missy Elliott is a rapper and producer known for her innovative style and contributions to hip hop, Elliott hails from Portsmouth, Virginia.
Missy Elliott in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most beautiful female rapper
9

4
votes

Flickr:conradmorgan. · CC BY-SA 2.0

Dave Matthews

Dave Matthews is the frontman of the Dave Matthews Band, Matthews was born in South Africa but moved to Virginia as a child and is considered a significant figure in the state's music scene.
10

3
votes

Harris & Ewing · Public domain

Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson is a former president of the United States, Wilson was born in Virginia and is known for his contributions to American politics and international relations during World War I.

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Ranking factors for famous person

Popularity and recognition

Consider the person's overall fame and public recognition within and outside Virginia.
Achievements and contributions

Evaluate the individual's notable achievements or contributions in their respective fields, such as arts, sports, politics, business, or entertainment.
Cultural impact

Examine how the person has influenced or shaped Virginia's culture or the larger society through their work, ideas, or influence.
Longevity and endurance

Consider the person's lasting impact and presence over time, including their relevance and influence in the present day.
Public perception and reputation

Take into account the person's public image, reputation, and perception, both positive and negative.
Historical significance

If applicable, assess the individual's historical relevance and impact on Virginia or their contribution to its history.
Global recognition

Consider the person's recognition and influence beyond Virginia, both nationally and internationally, if applicable.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous person in Virginia. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or person is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2085 views
214 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each person once every 24 hours. The rank of each person is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous person in virginia

Virginia, also known as the "Mother of Presidents", has been home to many notable figures throughout history. From founding fathers like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to modern-day icons like singer Pharrell Williams and actress Sandra Bullock, Virginia has produced some of the most notable and influential people in American history. With such a rich cultural and historical background, it's no surprise that Virginia continues to be home to some of the most famous and beloved people in the world. In this poll, we aim to determine who the people of Virginia consider to be the most famous person to come from their beloved state.