6 Of The Most Legendary Redheads Of All Time

As a redhead, you should know you’re pretty special. Accounting for just 1-2% of the population, our rare physical features distinguish us from most. They are part of our identity. You should also know some of the most accomplished and important figures of history were actually redheads too.

Redheads, take a look at these inspiring individuals that will give you yet another reason to be proud of your crowning glory.

1. Mark Twain

The famed American author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer & The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is often shown in photographs after his hair had turned white with age. However, in his youth he was fortunate enough to have red hair, writing “While the rest of the species is descended from apes, redheads are descended from cats.”

READ: The 10 Best Redhead Quotes

2. Florence Nightingale

Known as the founder of modern nursing, she first made her name after her contributions to the Crimean War of the 1850s where she trained fellow volunteers to assist doctors and provide much needed medical care. Upon returning to England after the war, Florence established the first-ever nursing school and paved the way for future medical professionals following in her footsteps.

READ: Top 6 Most Powerful Redhead Women in History

3. Vincent Van Gogh

This impressionist painter is best remembered for his works such as The Starry Night, and Sunflowers, as well as numerous self–portraits, in which he depicted his red hair and beard. Although he only sold a single painting in his lifetime, he is now known as one of the most famous artists of all time.

4. Queen Elizabeth I

Reigning from 1558-1603, Queen Elizabeth I established the British monarchy as a tour de force during her rule. Her time on the throne dubbed the Elizabethan Age, heralded a time of England as an undisputed power in politics, trade, and the arts. Her red mane is always displayed in ornate hairstyles which were popular for the time.

5. George Washington

As one of the most famous figures in American history, it’s only fitting that this founding father and first President of the United States was a redhead. Records state that he even opted not to wear a wig like many of his contemporaries but instead was proud to wear his long hair pulled back in a ponytail.

6. Lucille Ball

Her red hair isn’t the only reason we love Lucy. The model, actress and comedian was a revolutionary in the performance world and was one of the first women to star in her own sitcom. In addition to pioneering female empowerment, she also had red hair and blue eyes, making her a part of the rarest genetic population in the world.

READ: 12 Reasons Why Every Redhead Should Love Lucille Ball