1

Long Tom

Image: Richard Hedrick

This nickname refers to a Founding Father, one of our nation's earliest presidents, famously born in Virginia. Author of the Declaration of Independence, he also oversaw the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Monticello was his home, now a museum and historical site. You know who we're talking about, don't you?

2

Grand Wrestler

Image: Fiona Murray-deGraaff

This is certainly a powerful nickname, right? And it was attributed to a great man who led our nation during the Civil War. Author of the famous Gettysburg Address , he is also famous for having issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. His beard and stovepipe hat are forever etched in our memory. What's your guess?

3

American Fabius

Image: Matt Briney

Quintus Fabius Maximus was a Roman general known for his astute strategies during the Punic Wars. In honour of that general and for the clever tactics he deployed during a conflict in our country's history, one of our presidents earned the nickname "American Fabius". He was also nicknamed "The father of his country." Do you know who we are referring to?

4

The Human Iceberg

Image: Annie Spratt

This nickname may seem a bit harsh, perhaps even exaggerated. "The Human Iceberg" was given to our 23rd president, who led the country from 1889 to 1893, due to his rather stiff and reserved demeanor.

Before becoming president, this commander-in-chief served in the Union Army during the Civil War, and he was also the grandson of a former president! Do you know who he is?

5

Old Man Eloquent

Image: Tim Mossholder

The man who was known as "Old Man Eloquent" not only served as president, but also served in the US House of Representatives for nearly 17 years. Before becoming president, he helped negotiate the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812. Additionally, he was the son of the 2nd president of the United States!

6

His Little Majesty

Image: rupixen

This is another nickname that points to physical features, and we could say it was not used with the best intentions. However, this president was also proudly known as the "Father of the Constitution." In addition, he served two consecutive terms and led the country through the War of 1812. If you want to know who he is, keep reading!

7

Long Tom: Thomas Jefferson

Image: Alicia Razuri

Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd president of our country, was very tall, a feature that earned him the nickname "Long Tom." He was 6' 2'', making him one of the tallest presidents in US history. According to descriptions from the time, President Jefferson was well-proportioned, and his height was above average compared to his contemporaries. Did you know that?

8

Grand Wrestler: Abraham Lincoln

Image: Ed Fr

At 6' 4'', Abraham Lincoln was slightly taller than Thomas Jefferson, but his nickname "Grand Wrestler" came not from his height but from his impressive wrestling skills. That's right! As a young man, the 16th US President was a fantastic wrestler, and his athleticism and physical toughness were outstanding qualities even in his later years.

9

American Fabius: George Washington

Image: Priscilla Gyamfi

Before becoming the 1st president of the United States, George Washington served as the Commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He was known for his clever, strategic use of attrition, avoiding massive battles and conserving troops, a tactic that contributed enormously to the American victory.

He earned the nickname "American Fabius" because his techniques resembled those of the Roman general Quintus Fabius Maximus, who fought against Hannibal's Carthaginian forces during the Second Punic War.

10

The Human Iceberg: Benjamin Harrison

Image: René DeAnda

Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States, earned the nickname "The Human Iceberg" due to his reserved and formal character in both political and social interactions. However, despite this rather harsh nickname, many admired his seriousness and intellect.

11

Old Man Eloquent: John Quincy Adams

Image: Larry Ferreira

You were right! "Old Man Eloquent" is the nickname given to John Quincy Adams, the 6th President of the United States, who was also the son of the 2nd president, John Adams.

As we mentioned, he served in the US House of Representatives for 17 years, and it was during that time that his excellent oratory skills and great speeches truly stood out, earning him this peculiar yet favorable alias.

12

His Little Majesty: James Madison

Image: Richard Hedrick

Unlike Lincoln and Jefferson, James Madison was known for his short stature. His 5' 4'' made him the shortest president in US history and earned him the nickname "His Little Majesty".

Initially used by his adversaries, the moniker later took on a more humorous and even affectionate tone, with the word "Majesty" emphasizing Madison's strong and important role in shaping our nation.

1

Open the windows

Image: Braden Burson

Yes, you read that right. A sitting US president can’t just get up and open the windows of the White House to enjoy a beautiful day. While there’s no law against it, the protocols state that any action that could pose a security risk to the commander-in-chief must be carefully reviewed and approved by the staff.

2

Go to the cinema

Image: Krists Luhaers

Going to the movies is one of life’s simple pleasures. Unfortunately, if you’re the president, it’s not one of your options. While it’s not officially forbidden, crowded and dark spaces like movie theaters represent serious security risks. Luckily, the White House has its own private screening room, so the president and his family can still enjoy movie night at home.

3

Attend their children’s events

Image: Sincerely Media

You’ll rarely see a president at their kids’ school plays or sporting events. And it’s not because they’re bad parents; it’s because regulations discourage them from attending. With so many people, children, and things happening at the same time, keeping the commander-in-chief safe in those settings is nearly impossible.

4

Buy their own tech devices

Image: appshunter.io

When a new iPhone hits the market, many rush to buy it, but presidents can’t make this decision on their own. Any electronic device, like a smartphone or tablet, could be vulnerable to hacking or espionage. So while presidents can use cell phones, theirs must be secure, vetted, and government-approved.

5

Block people on social media

Image: Julian

And that isn’t the only restriction on cell phones. Presidents who use their social media accounts for official communications are advised not to block people in their official POTUS account, since doing so could be seen as suppressing free speech. On the other hand, they can block users on personal accounts.

6

Go out alone

Image: Warren K. Leffler, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The US president can’t just grab the keys and head out for a walk. Sure, strolls around the White House gardens are fine, but stepping beyond the gates is a different story. Anytime the president leaves the White House, even for a quick walk around the block, the Secret Service must secure the area, plan the route, and provide constant protection. Sounds a little overwhelming, right? But when you’re the commander in chief, safety always comes first!

7

Drive

Image: Jerry Kavan

Ever felt the urge to hop in your car and drive somewhere spontaneously? Well, if you’re the President of the United States, that’s off-limits. Security measures strongly recommend that presidents must always travel in a secure vehicle with a driver and a full security detail. In fact, the last president known to drive alone on the open road was Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969).

8

Fly on commercial airlines

Image: The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Just as security protocols strongly discourage the president from driving alone on open roads, flying on commercial airlines is also off-limits. Imagine being hundreds of feet in the air, locked in with strangers; it could be extremely unsafe when you’re the president of the United States. Implementing proper security measures would be too complicated, and with a large presidential staff, there might not even be enough seats for everyone.

9

Accept expensive gifts

Image: Ayana Ames

Presidents receive many, many letters and gifts from the public, but not all of them can be accepted. The US Constitution and federal law require presidents to decline overly expensive gifts, whether they come from foreign leaders or everyday citizens, to prevent any appearance of conflict of interest or corruption.

10

Discard official mail

Image: Wolfgang Vrede

Although it may seem like a harmless, ordinary task, the president can’t just start cleaning out their office or email inbox. All presidential correspondence, physical or digital (even spam!), is considered official government property. It must be processed or archived according to federal records regulations, and discarding anything requires a strict review process.

1

Memphis

Image: Brian Wegman 🎃

We say Memphis, you probably think of Graceland and Elvis, right? But in Memphis, barbecue is big too. Famous for its pork dishes, Memphis-style BBQ revolves around slow-cooked shoulders, butts, and ribs, often served with a smoky tomato-based sauce or simply seasoned with a dry rub. Pulled pork sandwiches are a staple here, typically paired with tangy coleslaw.

Be warned, if you visit, don’t expect to pry the secret recipes for their rubs or sauces—those are guarded more tightly than gold.

2

Kansas City

Image: Ahmad

Kansas City barbecue is synonymous with variety. This region smokes everything from ribs and brisket to sausages and burnt ends. The hallmark of Kansas City-style BBQ is its sweet, thick sauce made with tomatoes, molasses, and brown sugar.

This style owes much of its legacy to Henry Perry, the "Father of Kansas City Barbecue" whose techniques were passed down to pitmasters like Arthur Bryant and Ollie Gates. Today, Kansas City’s barbecue joints remain legendary destinations.

3

North Carolina

Image: Leo_Visions

In North Carolina, barbecue loyalty is divided . The Eastern Style involves whole-pig barbecue smoked over wood coals and basted with a peppery vinegar sauce. Purists argue this method lets the meat’s natural flavors shine.

The Western Style (a.k.a. Lexington) is focused on pork shoulder, this style features a ketchup-based sauce that’s sweeter than its eastern counterpart. The addition of tomatoes reflects influences from Bavarian settlers in the area.

4

Texas

Image: Israel Albornoz

Texas takes it a step further and we can find multiple styles . At least, three!

On the one hand, Central Texas goes for a simple and straightforward beef brisket seasoned with salt and pepper, then smoked low and slow.

East Texas style features tender beef and pork, cooked until falling off the bone and often served in sandwiches with a thick, sweet sauce.

Now, as for South Texas, meats like cow’s head or goat are slowly smoked in underground pits and served with salsa and guacamole.

5

Alabama

Image: Ruthra Malai

Alabama’s claim to barbecue fame is its unique white sauce, made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and pepper. This creamy, tangy sauce is typically slathered on smoked chicken or ribs, offering a refreshing departure from traditional tomato-based options.

Cities like Birmingham have emerged as culinary destinations, they blend barbecue with Southern hospitality. Who wouldn’t want to try that out?

6

Georgia

Image: Ajeet Panesar

In Georgia, a barbecue is a social event as much as a culinary delight. Pork is the star, often accompanied by smoky brisket, sausages, and chicken. Georgia’s barbecue leans heavily on bold, smoky flavors and can be found in roadside shacks and upscale eateries alike. Each bite reflects the state’s rich culinary heritage.

7

Hawaii

Image: Z Grills Australia

Hawaii has stunning views, dreamy beaches, and delicious dishes too! Hawaiian barbecue is a celebration of its diverse cultural influences. And a result of its diverse climate too.

Kalua pork, cooked in underground ovens , is a staple at traditional luaus, while local BBQ plates often feature Korean-style ribs, Huli Huli chicken, or barbecued seafood. These dishes are served with rice and macaroni salad, a unique island twist to American barbecue.

8

Kentucky

Image: Sergio Arteaga

Kentucky’s barbecue scene is defined by its love of mutton , which is smoked over hickory wood and served with a peppery vinegar dip.

This lesser-known style also includes pork and turkey, which ultimately reflects the state’s agricultural diversity. The city of Owensboro is the epicenter of mutton barbecue. They host annual festivals dedicated to the dish. Even if you’re not big on BBQ, this annual event is worth visiting!

9

Virginia

Image: Carlitos Grill

Some argue that barbecue’s American roots trace back to Virginia, where Native American techniques and African influences merged.

Whether that’s the case or not, Virginia’s regional variations are great. They include sweet tomato-based sauces , tangy vinegar blends, and even sauces with hints of peanut butter. Each micro-region brings its spin, but they all uphold the state’s rich barbecue heritage.

10

South Carolina

Image: Davide Cantelli

South Carolina’s barbecue stands out with its signature mustard-base sauce, known as "Carolina Gold." Influenced by the state’s German settlers, this tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the region’s whole hog cooking.

South Carolina also offers other sauces, including vinegar-based and tomato-based varieties. In this state, you can’t really say there’s not a thing for every taste bud!