The List of US Vice Presidents begins with John Adams in 1789 and continues to the present day. Each Vice President played an important role in shaping the country’s political journey. Some became Presidents later, while others influenced laws and policies during their time in office. Let’s go through each Vice President and see how they contributed to American history.
List of US Vice Presidents
John Adams (1789–1797)
John Adams was the very first Vice President of the United States, serving under George Washington. The role of Vice President was still new, so Adams mostly worked in the Senate, where he often gave tie-breaking votes. Though the position had limited power, Adams took his duties seriously and helped shape early American government. He was known for his intelligence, strong personality, and dedication to independence. After two terms, Adams went on to become the second President of the United States.
Thomas Jefferson (1797–1801)
Thomas Jefferson served as Vice President under John Adams before becoming the third President of the United States. He was already famous as the main author of the Declaration of Independence. As Vice President, Jefferson faced deep political divisions between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. He believed in democracy, individual liberty, and states’ rights. Despite challenges, Jefferson’s vision and ideas influenced America’s political direction. His time as Vice President was a step toward his even greater role as President.
Aaron Burr (1801–1805)
Aaron Burr was the third Vice President, serving with President Thomas Jefferson. His term is remembered for political controversies, including his famous duel with Alexander Hamilton, which led to Hamilton’s death. In the Senate, Burr worked as a fair presiding officer and maintained order. However, his political career faced difficulties due to growing mistrust and scandals. Burr’s life story remains one of the most dramatic in US political history. His Vice Presidency highlighted both his talent and his troubled reputation.
George Clinton (1805–1812)
George Clinton served as Vice President under both Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. He was one of the first Vice Presidents to serve with two different Presidents. Clinton was a strong supporter of states’ rights and limited federal government. During his time, the country was preparing for the War of 1812, and he played a role in supporting Madison’s leadership. Although his health declined toward the end of his service, Clinton remains an important early figure in American politics.
Elbridge Gerry (1813–1814)
Elbridge Gerry became Vice President under James Madison. He is best remembered for inspiring the term “gerrymandering,” which refers to drawing voting districts for political advantage. Gerry’s Vice Presidency was short since he died in office after only a year. Still, his long career in politics included being a signer of the Declaration of Independence. His time as Vice President showed his dedication to public service, even though his health and political controversies limited his impact.
Daniel D. Tompkins (1817–1825)
Daniel D. Tompkins served as Vice President under James Monroe for two terms. He had earlier been Governor of New York and was known for supporting the state during the War of 1812. As Vice President, Tompkins played an important role in balancing national and state interests. However, his time in office was affected by financial troubles and poor health. Despite these struggles, he contributed to Monroe’s “Era of Good Feelings,” when the country enjoyed political unity.
John C. Calhoun (1825–1832)
John C. Calhoun was Vice President under both John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson. He is one of the few Vice Presidents to serve two Presidents. Calhoun strongly supported states’ rights and the idea that states could reject federal laws they disagreed with. This position created tension with President Jackson, leading to his resignation in 1832. Even after leaving the Vice Presidency, Calhoun remained a powerful voice in American politics, especially in debates over slavery and states’ rights.
Martin Van Buren (1833–1837)
Martin Van Buren served as Vice President under Andrew Jackson. He was a skilled politician and helped strengthen the Democratic Party. As Vice President, Van Buren supported Jackson’s policies, especially those related to limited government and opposition to the national bank. He was seen as Jackson’s trusted ally and advisor. His success in politics helped him later become the eighth President of the United States. Van Buren’s Vice Presidency prepared him for national leadership.
Richard Mentor Johnson (1837–1841)
Richard Mentor Johnson served as Vice President under Martin Van Buren. He was a war hero from the War of 1812, remembered for claiming to have killed the Shawnee leader Tecumseh. Johnson was popular with many voters for his military service, but his personal life created controversy in politics. As Vice President, he was often absent from Washington and had limited influence. Still, he holds a place in history as one of the more unique and debated Vice Presidents.
John Tyler (1841)
John Tyler was elected Vice President under William Henry Harrison. After only a month, Harrison died, and Tyler became the first Vice President to succeed to the Presidency. His sudden rise set the precedent for how the office of Vice President could transfer power during a crisis. Tyler was not very active during his short time as Vice President, but his role in history is significant. He showed that the Vice President was more than just a ceremonial position.
George M. Dallas (1845–1849)
George M. Dallas served as Vice President under James K. Polk. He supported Polk’s expansionist policies, including the annexation of Texas and the Mexican-American War. Dallas was a strong advocate for national growth and westward expansion. In the Senate, he gave the deciding vote on many key issues. Although not as famous as some leaders, his influence helped shape the country during a time of rapid change.
Millard Fillmore (1849–1850)
Millard Fillmore became Vice President under Zachary Taylor. When Taylor died in 1850, Fillmore became the 13th President of the United States. As Vice President, Fillmore had little direct power, but he supported compromises that aimed to ease tensions between the North and South over slavery. His calm and practical approach to politics made him a reliable figure. His Vice Presidency, though short, prepared him for the challenges he later faced as President.
William R. King (1853)
William R. King was Vice President under Franklin Pierce, but his term was tragically short. He was gravely ill during his election and took the oath of office while in Cuba, hoping the climate would improve his health. Sadly, he died only a month after becoming Vice President, making his service one of the shortest in history. Despite this, King had a long political career before, serving in Congress and as a diplomat. His story shows the unpredictability of political life.
John C. Breckinridge (1857–1861)
John C. Breckinridge served as Vice President under James Buchanan and was the youngest person ever elected to the office at just 36 years old. He was popular for his strong speeches and political talent. However, the years leading to the Civil War created deep divisions. After serving as Vice President, Breckinridge became a Confederate general, which made his legacy controversial. Still, his Vice Presidency is remembered for his youth and influence in a troubled time.
Hannibal Hamlin (1861–1865)
Hannibal Hamlin was Vice President under Abraham Lincoln during the first years of the Civil War. A strong opponent of slavery, Hamlin fully supported Lincoln’s leadership and the Union’s cause. While he had limited direct power, his presence helped balance the Republican Party by representing a more radical anti-slavery wing. Hamlin’s Vice Presidency was overshadowed by Lincoln, but his commitment to freedom and unity made him a respected figure in history.
Andrew Johnson (1865)
Andrew Johnson became Vice President under Abraham Lincoln in 1865 but served only a few weeks before Lincoln’s assassination. Johnson then became President, facing the enormous challenge of leading the country through Reconstruction after the Civil War. His Vice Presidency was too short for major influence, but his sudden rise to power shaped America’s future. Johnson remains one of the most controversial leaders in US history due to his conflicts over Reconstruction policies.
Schuyler Colfax (1869–1873)
Schuyler Colfax was Vice President under Ulysses S. Grant. He supported Reconstruction policies and civil rights for freed slaves after the Civil War. Colfax had been a Speaker of the House before becoming Vice President, known for his strong oratory skills. However, his reputation was damaged by a corruption scandal related to the Crédit Mobilier affair. Despite this, Colfax played an important role in post-war politics and supported unity in the nation.
Henry Wilson (1873–1875)
Henry Wilson served as Vice President under Ulysses S. Grant in his second term. A strong opponent of slavery, Wilson had worked for years as an abolitionist and was respected for his moral character. As Vice President, he supported policies that aimed to protect the rights of African Americans during Reconstruction. Unfortunately, his time was cut short when he died in office in 1875. Wilson is remembered for his dedication to justice and equality.
William A. Wheeler (1877–1881)
William A. Wheeler served as Vice President under Rutherford B. Hayes. Known as a quiet and honest politician, he avoided scandals in a time when corruption was common. Wheeler was respected for his fairness and integrity, though he played a limited role in major national issues. His time as Vice President showed how the position was often more symbolic than powerful. Despite not being widely remembered, his honesty earned him respect in political circles.
Chester A. Arthur (1881)
Chester A. Arthur was elected Vice President under James A. Garfield. Only a few months into their term, Garfield was assassinated, and Arthur became the 21st President. As Vice President, he did not have much time to make an impact, but his sudden rise to the presidency surprised many. Once in office, he pushed for civil service reform, showing that he could rise above political expectations. Arthur’s Vice Presidency is remembered mainly for leading to his unexpected presidency.
Thomas A. Hendricks (1885)
Thomas A. Hendricks served as Vice President under Grover Cleveland. Unfortunately, his term was very short since he died only a few months after taking office. Hendricks had long been active in politics, supporting states’ rights and Democratic policies. While his Vice Presidency did not last long enough for major achievements, his long career made him a respected figure. His sudden death highlighted how fragile the role could be in those times.
Levi P. Morton (1889–1893)
Levi P. Morton was Vice President under Benjamin Harrison. He had earlier served as a US minister to France, where he helped strengthen international relations. As Vice President, Morton supported Harrison’s Republican policies but did not play a major role in shaping laws. Known for his business sense and diplomatic skills, he was respected for his steady service. Morton’s career reflected the quieter side of the Vice Presidency in the late 19th century.
Adlai E. Stevenson (1893–1897)
Adlai E. Stevenson served as Vice President under Grover Cleveland in his second term. He supported Cleveland’s Democratic positions but often clashed with him on the issue of currency and the economy. Stevenson was known for being approachable and popular among ordinary citizens. His disagreements with Cleveland showed how Vice Presidents could sometimes differ from their Presidents. Stevenson’s time in office gave him a lasting reputation as a strong political voice of his era.
Garret A. Hobart (1897–1899)
Garret A. Hobart served as Vice President under William McKinley. He was a trusted advisor and played a more active role than many previous Vice Presidents. Hobart worked closely with McKinley on both political and personal matters, which made him an important figure in the administration. Sadly, he died in office after just two years. His strong partnership with McKinley showed how the Vice President could be more than just a ceremonial role.
Theodore Roosevelt (1901)
Theodore Roosevelt became Vice President under William McKinley in 1901. Known for his energy and bold ideas, Roosevelt was already famous as a war hero from the Spanish-American War. After McKinley’s assassination, Roosevelt became the 26th President at age 42, the youngest ever at the time. His short Vice Presidency was mostly quiet, but it launched him into one of the most impactful presidencies in US history. Roosevelt is remembered as a symbol of progressive change and strong leadership.
Charles W. Fairbanks (1905–1909)
Charles W. Fairbanks was Vice President under Theodore Roosevelt. A lawyer and politician from Indiana, he was known for his conservative views. Fairbanks often disagreed with Roosevelt’s progressive reforms, which limited his influence in the administration. Still, he was respected in the Senate for his leadership and careful approach to politics. His time as Vice President showed the balance between progressive and conservative forces in early 20th-century America.
James S. Sherman (1909–1912)
James S. Sherman served as Vice President under William Howard Taft. He was nicknamed “Sunny Jim” for his cheerful personality and was well-liked in Washington. Sherman played a strong role in the Senate, helping manage debates and supporting Republican policies. Sadly, he died just days before the 1912 election, making him one of the few Vice Presidents to die in office. His friendly style and political skill left a positive mark despite his short service.
Thomas R. Marshall (1913–1921)
Thomas R. Marshall served as Vice President under Woodrow Wilson for two terms. Known for his sense of humor, he once joked, “What this country needs is a really good five-cent cigar.” While not deeply involved in shaping policy, Marshall loyally supported Wilson, especially during World War I. He briefly carried presidential powers when Wilson suffered a stroke, though his authority was limited. Marshall is remembered as a loyal Vice President with a witty personality.
Charles G. Dawes (1925–1929)
Charles G. Dawes was Vice President under Calvin Coolidge. Before that, he won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on rebuilding Europe’s economy after World War I. As Vice President, Dawes often clashed with the Senate and kept his distance from political debates. He was better known for his international work than for his Vice Presidency. Dawes remains unique in history as both a political leader and a Nobel Prize winner.
Charles Curtis (1929–1933)
Charles Curtis served as Vice President under Herbert Hoover. He holds a unique place in history as the first person of Native American heritage to serve as Vice President. Curtis had earlier been Senate Majority Leader and was respected for his leadership skills. During the Great Depression, however, the Hoover administration faced heavy criticism. Curtis remained loyal but could not change public opinion. His heritage and long political career make him a significant figure in American history.
John Nance Garner (1933–1941)
John Nance Garner, often called “Cactus Jack,” was Vice President under Franklin D. Roosevelt for his first two terms. A skilled politician, he had served as Speaker of the House before becoming Vice President. Garner supported many of Roosevelt’s New Deal programs early on but later disagreed with him on expanding government powers. Known for his blunt and colorful personality, Garner’s independence made him stand out. His time showed the growing importance of the Vice Presidency in shaping policy.
Henry A. Wallace (1941–1945)
Henry A. Wallace served as Vice President during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s third term. He was a strong supporter of social reform and international cooperation during World War II. Wallace believed in fighting for equality at home and peace abroad. However, his liberal views caused tensions within the Democratic Party, and he was replaced for Roosevelt’s fourth term. Wallace later remained active in politics, remembered as an idealist with bold visions for America’s future.
Harry S. Truman (1945)
Harry S. Truman became Vice President under Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945 but served only a few months. After Roosevelt’s sudden death, Truman became President and made historic decisions such as ending World War II with the atomic bomb. As Vice President, Truman had little influence because he was kept out of many major discussions. Yet his sudden rise showed the importance of being prepared for leadership. Truman went on to shape the postwar world as President.
Alben W. Barkley (1949–1953)
Alben W. Barkley served as Vice President under Harry S. Truman. Known for his warm personality, he was nicknamed the “Veep,” a term that became popular for all Vice Presidents afterward. Barkley was experienced in Congress and helped Truman manage relations with lawmakers. He supported Truman’s policies during the early years of the Cold War. Barkley’s charm and humor made him a well-liked figure, and his legacy lives on through the famous nickname for the office.
Richard Nixon (1953–1961)
Richard Nixon served as Vice President under Dwight D. Eisenhower for two terms. He became one of the most active Vice Presidents in history at the time, traveling widely and representing the US abroad. Nixon was known for his tough stance against communism during the Cold War. His debates and speeches made him a national political figure. After his Vice Presidency, Nixon went on to become the 37th President, remembered for both his achievements and the Watergate scandal.
Lyndon B. Johnson (1961–1963)
Lyndon B. Johnson became Vice President under John F. Kennedy. He played an important role in managing relations with Congress due to his long experience as Senate Majority Leader. Johnson was deeply involved in Kennedy’s plans for civil rights and space exploration. After Kennedy’s assassination in 1963, Johnson became President and passed landmark civil rights laws. His Vice Presidency prepared him for one of the most challenging times in American history.
Hubert H. Humphrey (1965–1969)
Hubert H. Humphrey served as Vice President under Lyndon B. Johnson. He was known as a passionate advocate for civil rights and social programs. Humphrey strongly supported Johnson’s “Great Society” initiatives, which aimed to reduce poverty and promote equality. However, his support for the Vietnam War hurt his popularity. Despite this, Humphrey’s Vice Presidency is remembered for his dedication to justice and social progress. He later ran for President but narrowly lost to Richard Nixon.
Spiro Agnew (1969–1973)
Spiro Agnew was Vice President under Richard Nixon. He was known for his sharp criticism of political opponents and the media, becoming a strong voice for Nixon’s administration. However, his career ended in scandal when he resigned in 1973 after being charged with tax evasion and bribery. Agnew’s resignation made him one of the few Vice Presidents in US history to leave office in disgrace. His story shows how quickly political power can collapse due to corruption.
Gerald R. Ford (1973–1974)
Gerald R. Ford became Vice President after Spiro Agnew resigned, serving under Richard Nixon. He was chosen for his honesty and reputation as a stabilizing figure. Ford had been a respected Congressman for many years. When Nixon resigned during the Watergate scandal, Ford became the first person to assume the presidency without being elected as either President or Vice President. His short Vice Presidency was a path to the nation’s highest office during a time of crisis.
Nelson Rockefeller (1974–1977)
Nelson Rockefeller served as Vice President under Gerald Ford. A wealthy businessman and former Governor of New York, he brought experience and moderate Republican views to the administration. Rockefeller supported social programs and a strong federal government, which sometimes clashed with conservative members of his party. His Vice Presidency was mostly quiet but added balance to Ford’s leadership. Rockefeller remains one of the most prominent figures from a powerful American family.
Walter Mondale (1977–1981)
Walter Mondale was Vice President under Jimmy Carter. He reshaped the office by becoming a close advisor and active partner in decision-making, instead of just a ceremonial figure. Mondale worked on domestic policies, human rights issues, and government reforms. His model of the “modern Vice President” set the standard for future officeholders. Though Carter and Mondale lost reelection in 1980, Mondale’s Vice Presidency is remembered as one of the most influential in expanding the role.
George H. W. Bush (1981–1989)
George H. W. Bush served as Vice President under Ronald Reagan for two terms. A former Congressman, diplomat, and CIA director, he brought deep experience in government and foreign affairs. Bush loyally supported Reagan’s conservative policies while also serving as an important link to international leaders. His Vice Presidency strengthened his reputation and prepared him to become the 41st President. Bush’s years as Vice President highlighted his steady leadership and global outlook.
Dan Quayle (1989–1993)
Dan Quayle was Vice President under George H. W. Bush. He was relatively young when elected and often faced criticism from the media. Despite this, Quayle supported Bush’s policies and took on responsibilities such as leading the Council on Competitiveness. He also represented the US abroad in various missions. Quayle’s time in office was sometimes overshadowed by controversies, but he remained a loyal second-in-command throughout Bush’s presidency.
Al Gore (1993–2001)
Al Gore served as Vice President under Bill Clinton for two terms. He played an active role in government, especially in promoting environmental protection, technology, and government reform. Gore helped popularize discussions on climate change and the internet’s future. His partnership with Clinton was seen as one of the strongest in modern times. Gore later ran for President in 2000 but lost in a very close and disputed election. His Vice Presidency left a lasting impact on environmental policy.
Dick Cheney (2001–2009)
Dick Cheney was Vice President under George W. Bush for two terms. Considered one of the most powerful Vice Presidents in history, he had strong influence over national security and foreign policy, especially after the September 11 attacks. Cheney supported the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, making him a central figure in shaping US responses to terrorism. His leadership was controversial but highly influential. Cheney showed how much power the office of Vice President could hold.
Joe Biden (2009–2017)
Joe Biden served as Vice President under Barack Obama for two terms. With decades of Senate experience, Biden was a trusted advisor and partner to Obama. He worked on economic recovery after the 2008 financial crisis, foreign policy, and healthcare reform. Known for his approachable personality, Biden connected well with ordinary Americans. His long public service career later led him to become the 46th President of the United States in 2021.
Mike Pence (2017–2021)
Mike Pence was Vice President under Donald Trump. A former Governor of Indiana, Pence represented conservative and evangelical voters within the Republican Party. He supported Trump’s policies on tax cuts, deregulation, and immigration. Pence often defended the administration during political controversies. His role during the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, when he certified the election results, showed his commitment to the Constitution. Pence’s Vice Presidency highlighted both loyalty and moments of independence.
Kamala Harris (2021–Present)
Kamala Harris is the current Vice President, serving under Joe Biden. She is the first woman, first African American woman, and first Asian American to hold the office. Harris previously served as a US Senator from California and as Attorney General of the state. As Vice President, she has focused on issues like voting rights, immigration, and public health. Her historic election represents a major milestone in American politics, inspiring millions around the world.
Conclusion
The List of US Vice Presidents reflects the nation’s political history from 1789 to today. Some, like John Adams and Joe Biden, later became Presidents, while others influenced policy from the Senate. Each Vice President brought unique experiences and challenges to the office. Together, their stories show how the Vice Presidency evolved from a mostly symbolic role into a central part of American leadership.
FAQs
How many Vice Presidents has the United States had?
The United States has had 49 Vice Presidents from 1789 to the present, starting with John Adams and currently Kamala Harris.
Who was the first Vice President of the United States?
The first Vice President was John Adams, who served from 1789 to 1797 under President George Washington.
Which Vice Presidents later became Presidents?
A total of 15 Vice Presidents went on to become Presidents, including Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Joe Biden.
Who is the current Vice President of the United States?
The current Vice President is Kamala Harris, who made history as the first woman, first African American woman, and first Asian American to hold the office.
What does the Vice President of the United States do?
The Vice President’s main role is to preside over the Senate and cast tie-breaking votes. They also support the President and are next in line to become President if needed.
Has any Vice President resigned from office?
Yes, Spiro Agnew resigned in 1973 due to corruption charges. He is one of the very few Vice Presidents in history to leave office this way.
