September 6 is World Beard Day, and to get you in the spirit, we here at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! are brushing through history to bring you some of the strangest, boldest, and most iconic whiskers the world has ever seen.
From philosophers and presidents to rock stars and even wizards, these beards aren’t just facial hair; they’re iconic symbols of power, wisdom, and style. So, without further ado, here is our quintessential most influential beard list!
Honest Abe wasn’t always so hairy. In fact, he ran for president clean-shaven! It wasn’t until 11-year-old Grace Bedell wrote him a letter suggesting he grow whiskers to look more distinguished that Lincoln embraced the beard. He debuted his iconic beard during his campaign, and the look stuck.
Lincoln became the first U.S. president to wear a full beard in office, and it quickly became part of his iconic image. Statues, portraits, even the penny in your pocket, all trace their inspiration back to that one young girl’s suggestion. Believe It or Not!, one letter literally reshaped the face of history.
💥 In the Collection: Did you know that Ripley's owns a Booth Derringer pistol? Regarded as one of the most important historic items in the Ripley’s collection, a pistol inscribed with “J. Wilkes Booth” was left behind on the stage the night of the assassination.
When it comes to legendary facial hair, few can compete with Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill of ZZ Top. Their long, flowing chest-length beards became as famous as their bluesy guitar riffs.
Their matching beards were so iconic that Gillette once offered them $1 million to shave them off . Both refused, saying the beards were worth far more than money.
Fun fact? The band’s drummer, Frank Beard, is the only member without one. Oh, and yes, that’s his real last name!
💥 In the Collection: Did you know that Ripley's owns A 1965 White Chevrolet Corvette signed by some of the biggest names in rock , including ZZ Top!
Leonardo da Vinci didn’t just invent machines, paint masterpieces, and sketch futuristic ideas; he also wore one of the most recognizable beards in history. His long, flowing beard gave him the air of a wise sage, perfectly fitting for a man often called the ultimate Renaissance genius.
Da Vinci’s likeness, with his long beard, remains one of the most reproduced images in the world. For centuries, his beard has symbolized creativity, brilliance, and vision.
💥 In the Collection: Did you know that Ripley's owns a recreation of the Mona Lisa by artist Kristen Cumings that's made entirely from Jelly Belly jelly beans!
The Chinese philosopher Confucius shaped the way millions view morality and society, and his facial hair was just as legendary as his teachings. He is often depicted with a long, wispy beard and drooping mustache, symbols of wisdom and authority in ancient Chinese culture.
Confucius taught that one’s body was a gift from their parents and should never be altered. He urged followers not to tattoo their skin or cut their hair, beards, or fingernails, preserving their form as received.
💥 Robert Ripley Fun Fact: Did you know that Robert Ripley owned a Confucius Sculpture that was on display in his New York apartment!
Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory of evolution changed the way we see the world, but his facial hair changed the way we see him . Later in life, Darwin grew a thick, full beard that became almost as famous as On the Origin of Species.
The scientist’s wild mane gave him an aura of eccentric genius, and his portrait with piercing eyes and that snowy-white beard has become a staple of biology textbooks and museum walls. Some scientists even claim Darwin helped make beards fashionable again in Victorian England!
Okay, okay, so technically, Gandalf isn’t “real” in the historical sense, but in the world of pop culture, his beard is as iconic as any on this list!
J.R.R. Tolkien’s wizard from The Lord of the Rings carries a beard so long and flowing, it seems to hold the wisdom of Middle-earth itself.
From Lincoln’s life-changing chin curtain to Darwin’s evolutionary mane, these beards have made history, inspired culture, and, in Gandalf’s case, cast a few spells along the way.
Happy World Beard Day to all who celebrate! Who would you include on your top 5 list?
Want more unbelievable stories? Preorder Ripley's brand-new annual book, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Seek the Strange today and dive into 256 pages of jaw-dropping facts, bizarre records, and extraordinary people from around the globe!
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