When people ask “Who was the youngest president?” or “Who is the youngest president in history?”, the answer depends on how you define “youngest.” In the United States, the record is held by Theodore Roosevelt, who became president at just 42 years and 322 days old.
Roosevelt did not win his first term through an election—he took office in 1901 after President William McKinley was assassinated. If we look at the youngest elected president, the title goes to John F. Kennedy, who became president at 43 years and 236 days old in 1961.
Youngest President in U.S. History
- Theodore Roosevelt – Youngest to hold office (age 42).
- John F. Kennedy – Youngest to be elected (age 43).
This distinction often confuses people, so it’s important to know the difference between the youngest to take office and the youngest to be elected.
Youngest U.S. Presidents
| President | Age at Inauguration | Year Took Office |
|---|---|---|
| Theodore Roosevelt | 42 years, 322 days | 1901 |
| John F. Kennedy | 43 years, 236 days | 1961 |
| Bill Clinton | 46 years, 154 days | 1993 |
Youngest Presidents in World History
While the U.S. has seen young leaders like Theodore Roosevelt (42) and John F. Kennedy (43), several countries have had presidents who took office even earlier in life.
| President | Country | Age at Inauguration |
|---|---|---|
| Giacomo Simoncini | San Marino | 27 |
| Valentin Paniagua | Peru | 35 |
| Joseph Kabila | Democratic Republic of Congo | 29 |
| Sebastian Kurz (Chancellor) | Austria | 31 |
| Nayib Bukele | El Salvador | 37 |
Why Age Matters in Presidential History
Age often plays a role in public perception. Younger presidents are sometimes seen as energetic and forward-thinking, while older presidents are viewed as more experienced. Theodore Roosevelt was famous for his active lifestyle, adventurous spirit, and progressive policies. Similarly, John F. Kennedy brought a sense of youth, optimism, and change to the White House.
FAQs
Who was the youngest president in U.S. history?
Theodore Roosevelt, sworn in at age 42 in 1901.
Who is the youngest president in the world right now?
Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, born in 1988, became leader at age 34.
Who was the youngest elected U.S. president?
John F. Kennedy, elected at age 43 in 1960.
Who is the youngest president in history overall?
Giuseppe Pella of Italy became acting prime minister at 38, but for presidents, Nayib Bukele of El Salvador took office at 37 in 2019.
Who is the youngest female president in history?
Sanna Marin of Finland became prime minister at 34 (note: not president, but a head of government).
Who was the youngest president in Africa?
Ibrahim Traoré, age 34, Burkina Faso.
Has the U.S. ever had a president under 40?
No, the youngest was 42.
Who was the youngest acting president in U.S. history?
Theodore Roosevelt, 42 years old.
Which Asian country had the youngest president?
Philippines — Emilio Aguinaldo became president at 28 in 1899.
Who is the youngest president in Europe?
Emmanuel Macron of France became president at 39 in 2017.
Final Answer to the Question
- Youngest president in history (to serve): Theodore Roosevelt – 42 years old.
- Youngest president elected: John F. Kennedy – 43 years old.
Both leaders remain iconic, showing that age does not limit a president’s impact.