This list is a ranking of the 24 most influential last names in American life, chosen by the Valuetainment team. The ranking system measures four things: Social Reach, Economic Impact, Political Influence, and Family Duplication.
- Social Reach makes up 30 percent of the influence score. To measure social reach, we looked at the size and engagement of a person’s following on social media platforms, as well as their presence in traditional media. A significant portion of public opinion and trends are shaped online. Given the rise of influencers, activists, and thought leaders who can mobilize large groups of people through digital channels, we decided social reach should be given substantial weight.
- Economic Impact makes up 25 percent. This dimension considers a person’s financial influence, including their ability to affect market trends, consumer behavior, and economic decisions within industries or businesses. Those who can sway economic trends hold considerable influence, especially in a capitalist society like America. This includes not only the wealthy and corporate leaders but also innovators and entrepreneurs who drive economic change.
- Political Influence makes up 20 percent. This considers how influential the last name is on the political realm, irrespective of their wealth and social status. People who leverage powerful Super PACs, political party leadership, college administrations, media companies, and various other channels of political communication are considered. Likewise, people with direct access to members of Congress, state governors, and government agency directors are doubtlessly more influential in the realm of politics than those who merely share their political opinions occasionally.
- Family Duplication makes up 25 percent. While certain individuals on the list have built up a massive platform of influence, they scored lower if their name is only influential in our time. If they come from a family dynasty with a lot of social, political, and economic sway, or if they already have successors in line to take the reins after they pass, they scored higher.
Category of Influence
In addition, we have loosely grouped the candidates by category. For figures who derive their power from the political weight of their surname, we have titled them “Dynasties of Decision.” For those who run expansive corporations known for vast productive capabilities, we termed them “Empires of Enterprise.” Active players in the entertainment and media circuits have been grouped in “Cultural Consortia,” while those who are known for cutting-edge technological or cultural experiments get the name “Innovators and Icons.”
24. Clinton
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 3
Influence: 6.25
The Clintons have held roles at the peak of political power, including a Presidency and Secretary of State, and run a global philanthropic foundation. Similar to the Kennedys and Bushes in political influence, but with added global philanthropic reach. The Clintons are influential in politics, but this hasn’t translated into a broad family legacy, with Chelsea Clinton’s public role being comparatively moderate.
23. Hilton
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 7.5 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 6.43
The Hilton family’s influence in the hospitality industry and their presence in entertainment and media give them a unique position. Their economic impact through Hilton Hotels is significant, and their social reach, especially in recent generations, is notable. Compared to families with a more comprehensive economic impact like the Waltons, their influence is narrower, specialized as it is in hospitality. That said, the family’s influence is more associated with celebrity status than substantive generational business impact.
22. Emmanuel
Category: Cultural Consortia
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 6.45
Rahm Emanuel’s role as the Mayor of Chicago and a former White House Chief of Staff under President Obama places him significantly in political discourse. Ari Emanuel, as a leading figure in Hollywood, influences the entertainment industry. Their combined influence in politics and media is notable, but compared to families like the Murdochs or the Clintons, their reach is somewhat more specialized in their respective sectors. The Emanuel brothers have individual influence in their respective fields, but this doesn’t translate to a broad family legacy.
21. Obama
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 9 | Family Duplication: 3
Influence: 6.45
The Obamas continue to wield influence even after leaving the White House, acting as thought leaders for the Democratic Party and as trend setters in social justice activism. Barack showed the extent of his power when he “made the call” during the 2020 election and convinced the last remaining candidates to drop out and make room for Joe Biden. And Michelle, dearly beloved by nearly half the United States, has been called time and time again to run for office herself. Barack and Michelle Obama are influential, but they don’t have a familial legacy in the traditional sense, as their children are still young.
20. Mars
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 5.5 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 6.60
The Mars family owns one of the largest confectionery businesses in the world, influencing global food trends. Comparable to the Walton family in terms of consumer reach but within the specialized sector of confectionery and pet care. The Mars family continues to have influence in their business, but this legacy is low-profile and not widely influential outside their industry.
19. Bechtel
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 5 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 6.65
The Bechtel family, through their global construction and engineering company, has a profound economic impact, contributing to significant infrastructure projects worldwide. Their political influence is indirect, stemming from their involvement in projects that align with government policies. Compared to more publicly visible families like the Rockefellers or the Rothschilds, their social reach is less, but their economic impact is on par. The Bechtel family’s impact in construction and engineering is substantial, but it’s largely a corporate legacy rather than a broad public family legacy.
18. Bloomberg
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 8 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 4
Influence: 6.70
With a net worth exceeding $50 billion, Michael Bloomberg stands as a titan of industry, predominantly through his financial information and media empire. His trajectory bears resemblance to the Trump family, blending business prowess with a notable, albeit less controversial, political career. Bloomberg’s influence transcends mere boardrooms and political chambers. He wields significant power in both realms, leveraging his wealth and expertise to shape policies and drive change. However, unlike some influential families with deep-seated legacies, the Bloomberg name’s future is less apparent. His influence stems primarily from his individual achievements rather than a broader heritage. Nonetheless, his contributions to business and politics reverberate far and wide, leaving his signature on both spheres. In a world where wealth and politics intersect, Michael Bloomberg stands as a paragon of influence—a testament to the enduring power of entrepreneurship and public service.
17. Pritzker
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 8 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 6.95
The Pritzker family, synonymous with the hospitality industry through their ownership of Hyatt Hotels, stands as a formidable force in the business world. Their reach extends far beyond hotels, with significant holdings in various industries, making them a powerhouse of diverse business interests. Often compared to the Hilton family in their influence on hospitality, the Pritzkers distinguish themselves with their broader business portfolio and notable involvement in politics. While their impact in business is undeniable, their influence on the public sphere is more subdued, lacking the generational prominence seen in some other influential families. Nevertheless, their philanthropic contributions are significant, shaping industries and culture alike. In a landscape where business and politics intertwine, the Pritzker family stands as a testament to the power of enterprise and engagement—a legacy built not only on wealth but on influence and impact.
16. Du Pont
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 8 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 6.95
For over two centuries, the Du Ponts have held sway in the chemical industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of materials. Much like the Rockefellers in historical industrial impact, the Du Ponts have wielded significant influence, albeit with a focus on chemicals rather than oil. Their legacy looms large in the annals of industry, shaping the very fabric of modern chemistry. However, despite their storied past, their current public influence and visibility have waned in comparison. Nevertheless, their contributions to the chemical and material science sectors remain unparalleled, laying the groundwork for countless innovations that have shaped our modern world.
In a landscape dominated by technological advancement and industrial prowess, the Du Ponts stand as titans of chemistry—a testament to the enduring legacy of innovation and ingenuity.
15. Zuckerberg
Category: Cultural Consortia
Social Impact: 9 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 4
Influence: 7.15
In the realm of digital communication and social media, Meta Platforms reigns supreme, boasting over three billion active users worldwide. Much like the disruptive force of the Musk family in technology, Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, exerts a profound influence on how we connect and communicate in the digital age. Zuckerberg’s impact is undeniable, having pioneered Facebook into a global powerhouse of social networking. However, unlike families with entrenched legacies, Zuckerberg’s influence is primarily driven by his individual achievements rather than dynastic ties. It’s worth noting Zuckerberg’s recent appearances before Congress, testifying on matters of censorship and online regulation, underscored his role not just as a tech mogul but as a pivotal figure in shaping the digital-political landscape. In a world where connectivity is paramount, Zuckerberg and Meta Platforms represent more than just a company—they’re architects of our society, shaping how we interact, share, and communicate on a global scale. Their influence, much like the Kardashians in entertainment, extends far beyond their individual achievements, marking him as a defining force of the modern age.
14. Kardashian-Jenner
Category: Innovators and Icons
Social Impact: 9 | Economic Impact: 7.5 | Political Influence: 5 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 7.33
In today’s ever-evolving landscape of celebrity culture and social media dominance, one name stands out: the Kardashian-Jenner family. They’ve become the epitome of modern influence, transcending mere fame to wield significant economic and social power. Through their ventures in fashion, beauty, and entertainment, they’ve not only amassed wealth but have also shaped consumer behavior on a global scale.
Their reach is staggering, with millions of followers across various social media platforms and a constant presence in the media spotlight. While their impact on politics may be limited, their ability to sway public opinion and drive trends cannot be understated. Comparing them to families of traditional business or political backgrounds like the Fords or the Bushes, the Kardashian-Jenners represent a new era of influence—a dynasty built not on traditional power structures but on media savvy and cultural relevance. Yes, they dominate entertainment and fashion, but their influence extends beyond mere industries. It’s a testament to the changing nature of power and influence in our interconnected world.
In essence, the Kardashian-Jenner family isn’t just famous; they’re a force to be reckoned with—an emblem of the postmodern age where media reigns supreme.
13. Bezos
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 9.5 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 5.5
Influence: 7.35
CEO and entrepreneur Jeffrey Bezos, born in 1964, founded Amazon in his garage, and guided it to the heights of retail and cloud computing. His space enterprise Blue Origin reflects his vision for the future. Despite uncertainties about his legacy, including his highly publicized divorce from MacKenzie Scott, Bezos’ journey from modest beginnings to industry influence is noteworthy. Amazon’s evolution, marked by innovative strategies like Amazon Prime and Kindle, has impacted e-commerce and publishing. Additionally, Bezos’s focus on logistics and fulfillment has transformed supply chain management. His acquisition of The Washington Post underlines his interest in journalism and politics. Bezos’ legacy holds implications for future generations, but his family future is not yet clear.
12. Koch
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 7.40
The Koch family, led by brothers Charles and David Koch, has wielded significant influence in American politics and business for decades. Beginning with Fred C. Koch, who founded Koch Industries in 1940, the family built their fortune in oil refining, chemicals, and other industries.
Charles and David Koch expanded their father’s business empire and became known for their libertarian ideology and support of conservative causes. Through organizations like Americans for Prosperity and the Cato Institute, they promoted free-market principles and limited government intervention. Their financial contributions to political campaigns and lobbying efforts have shaped policy debates on issues such as climate change, taxation, and regulation.
While Charles Koch continues the work he began with his late brother, later generations of the Koch family have been less involved in politics.
11. Bush
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 8
Influence: 7.45
The Bush family has been a prominent force in American politics for generations. It began with Prescott Bush, who was a successful businessman and United States Senator. His son, George H.W. Bush, served as the 41st President of the United States from 1989 to 1993, following a distinguished career as a World War II naval aviator, CIA director, and Vice President under Ronald Reagan.
George H.W. Bush’s son, George W. Bush, followed in his footsteps, serving as the 43rd President of the United States from 2001 to 2009. His presidency was marked by significant events such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. In later generations, the Bush family’s influence has moved away from politics, with members now involved in business, philanthropy, and media.
10. Kennedy
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 8
Influence: 7.50
The Kennedy family is one of the most storied political dynasties in American history. Originating with patriarch Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., an influential businessman who became ambassador to the United Kingdom and chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Kennedy name rose to prominence in the 20th century.
John F. Kennedy, the eldest son, became the 35th President of the United States in 1961, captivating the nation with his charisma and vision for a new frontier before his tragic assassination in 1963. His brother, Robert F. Kennedy, served as Attorney General and later as a Senator before falling victim to yet another assassination.
Other notable members include Ted Kennedy, one of the longest-serving Senators in U.S. history, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is currently running for president like his father before him.
While the later generations of the family have not matched the historic impact of their predecessors, Kennedy still remains synonymous with American politics.
9. Murdoch
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 7.5 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 7.63
The Murdoch family, led by media mogul Rupert Murdoch, has played a significant role in shaping global media landscapes since the mid-20th century. Rupert Murdoch inherited a newspaper business from his father in Australia and expanded it into a global empire, acquiring numerous newspapers, television networks, and other media assets. Notable acquisitions include The Sun and The Times in the UK, Fox News in the US, and 21st Century Fox, which encompasses film studios like 20th Century Fox and television networks such as Fox Broadcasting Company.
The Murdoch family’s influence extends beyond traditional media, with ventures into digital media and technology platforms. Their conservative-leaning media outlets have been at the center of debates over media bias and its impact on public discourse. Rupert’s sons, James and Lachlan, have taken on prominent roles within the family business, but familiar disputes may hamper the legacy of unity in the long term.
8. Gates
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 9.5 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 7.68
Microsoft founder Bill Gates played a pivotal role in revolutionizing personal computing. After founding the company in 1995, Gates’ vision and business acumen propelled Microsoft to dominance, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Microsoft has a market cap around $3 trillion.
Beyond Microsoft, Gates and his wife Melinda established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, which became the world’s largest private philanthropic organization. Their foundation focuses on global health, education, and poverty alleviation, making significant strides in eradicating diseases like polio and malaria and improving access to education and healthcare in developing countries.
Gates is also a leading voice on climate change issues, advocating for sustainable solutions to environmental problems. Though his influence is immense, his three children have not yet launched public careers, limiting the visibility of the Gates family’s generational impact.
7. Soros
Category: Dynasties of Decision
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 8 | Political Influence: 9 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 7.70
Born in Hungary in 1930, George Soros rose to prominence as one of the most successful investors in history. After fleeing the Nazi occupation and later the Communist regime in Hungary, Soros migrated to England and then to the United States, where he amassed his fortune through his hedge fund, Quantum Fund. He became famous for “breaking the Bank of England” in 1992 by short-selling the British pound, earning him over a billion dollars in profit.
However, Soros is equally renowned for his political activism via the Open Society Foundation, which has allowed him to back social justice initiatives worldwide. His influence extends across various sectors, including education, healthcare, border policies, and elections. For years, he has backed the campaigns of progressive candidates throughout the US, donating over $32 billion to various causes.
His son, Alexander Soros, has been named the heir to the Soros organization, continuing the Open Society Foundation’s work.
6. Ford
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 8
Influence: 7.75
Nestled amidst the industrial landscape of Detroit, Michigan, the Ford family’s saga unfolds as the epitome of American ingenuity and perseverance. Henry Ford, a visionary entrepreneur, revolutionized transportation with the mass production of automobiles, forever changing the world. His Model T became an icon of the 20th century, empowering individuals with newfound mobility.
As the Ford Motor Company grew, so did the family’s influence. Henry’s son, Edsel Ford, played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s design aesthetic and expanding its global reach. Despite facing challenges such as the Great Depression and World War II, the Fords remained resilient, adapting to changing times while staying committed to innovation and quality.
Compared to other industrial families like the Rockefellers, their impact is more concentrated in the automotive sector, and their influence there isn’t as dominant as it once was. However, their philanthropic efforts, spanning education, healthcare, and community development, ensure their name will last for decades to come.
5. Musk
Category: Innovators and Icons
Social Impact: 10 | Economic Impact: 9.5 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 4
Influence: 7.78
In the vast expanse of Silicon Valley’s technological frontier, one name shines brighter than most – Elon Musk. Born in South Africa, Musk’s mission to become a titan of industry is a testament to audacity, innovation, and unyielding determination.
From co-founding PayPal and revolutionizing online payments to spearheading the electric car revolution with Tesla, Musk has consistently defied convention. His vision extends beyond Earth’s confines, with SpaceX pushing the boundaries of humanity. He endeavors to make us a multi-planetary species, envisioning a future where humans inhabit Mars. Musk’s ventures extend still further, with ventures like Neuralink exploring brain-computer interfaces and The Boring Company tackling transportation infrastructure challenges.
As if X/Twitter’s influence weren’t enormous enough, Tesla and SpaceX have market valuations of $600 billion and $180 billion, respectively. Elon Musk is a prominent figure, but his performance as a family patriarch and the legacy of his progeny have not yet been determined.
4. Trump
Category: Innovators and Icons
Social Impact: 9 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 7.80
Beginning with legendary Queens real estate mogul Fred Trump, the Trump family took on the twentieth century in a manner as bold and brash as New York City itself. With the rise of his son and successor Donald Trump, the family has inspired vast swaths of the American public through real estate, reality television, and ultimately the America First political vision, with which he tore through the 2106 Republican political landscape and reshaped the party in his image.
Donald’s presidency and real estate empire have significantly impacted American politics and business. Donald Trump’s children are involved in his pursuits, and have therefore incurred a lot of the turbulence and scrutiny that mars Donald’s public reception. The Trumps’ polarizing image in American media lowers their potential social reach, and yet the Trumps will remain a force to be reckoned with for many years to come, showing how the complexities of power in the modern era can only be matched with an equally audacious spirit.
3. Walton
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 9.5 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 8
Influence: 7.88
The Walton family, led by the visionary Sam Walton, embarked on a journey that would redefine retail forever. With a relentless spirit and an eye for opportunity, Sam opened his first store in 1962, a modest corner shop in Rogers, Arkansas.
The Waltons, united by a shared vision and unyielding determination, propelled Walmart to unprecedented heights. Their commitment to offering low prices and exceptional service resonated with millions, transforming Walmart into the world’s largest retailer. Yet, amid this flourishing of wealth, they remained rooted in their values, emphasizing community, integrity, and innovation.
The Walton family owns about 50 percent of Walmart, the world’s largest retailer by revenue, with over $600 billion in annual sales. Compared to other retail families like the Hiltons, their economic impact is significantly higher due to Walmart’s size and reach. The Walton family maintains control over Walmart and is active in philanthropy. However, their public profile is low and their direct political involvement is relatively modest.
2. Rothschild
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 10 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 8.05
The Rothschilds are a powerful, shadowy banking dynasty whose net worth is anywhere from $1 trillion to $25 trillion. The family’s influence reverberates through centuries, epitomizing the power of modern finance and networking. They began in Germany in the 18th century and emigrated outwards to the major nations of Europe. Their fortune skyrocketed after the loss of Napoleon during the battle of Waterloo, and never came back down.
With branches in major financial centers, they pioneered international banking, facilitating trade and financing ventures globally. Their strategic investments in infrastructure, railroads, and key industries fueled industrial revolutions. Through shrewd alliances, they often influenced the complex geopolitical landscape behind the scenes.
Today the family’s influence is less visible than in previous centuries, spread as it is throughout its many members and their various philanthropic endeavors, from the arts to environmentalism. Their saga underscores the profound influence wielded by a family whose name has become synonymous with quiet power and opulence.
1. Rockefeller
Category: Empires of Enterprise
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 8 | Family Duplication: 9
Influence: 8.50
The Rockefellers rank at number one. The Rockefeller family has had an immense impact on American life, from culture to politics to economics. John D. Rockefeller’s creation of Standard Oil in 1870, which at its peak controlled about 90 percent of US refineries and pipelines, revolutionized corporate and industrial strategies. At its height, Standard Oil was dismantled by the US government in 1911 under antitrust laws, a testament to its overwhelming control of the market and its precedent-setting impact on American business practices.
Then, the Rockefeller family used its massive fortune to influence the social and political sphere. Through the efforts of the Rockefeller Foundation, they founded schools, financed art and scientific research, and promoted progressive social causes, profoundly shaping the cultural and intellectual landscapes in America. However, its ideological drift toward more radical causes over time shows the importance of ensconcing values in the institutions you leave behind.
Honorable Mentions:
Turner (Ted)
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 7.5 | Political Influence: 6.5 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 6.23
Kushner (Jared and Josh)
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 6.20
Ellison
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 2
Influence: 6.50
Slim (Carlos)
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 5 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 6.05
Curry
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 3 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 6.00
Smith (Will & Jada)
Social Impact: 9 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 4 | Family Duplication: 4
Influence: 6.00
Cuomo
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 5 | Political Influence: 7 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 5.95
Manning
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 6 | Political Influence: 3 | Family Duplication: 7
Influence: 5.95
West (Kanye)
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 4 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 5.90
Steinbrenner
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 7 | Political Influence: 4 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 5.85
Buffett
Social Impact: 7 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 6 | Family Duplication: 1
Influence: 5.80
Paul (Jake and Logan)
Social Impact: 8 | Economic Impact: 5 | Political Influence: 3 | Family Duplication: 4
Influence: 5.25
Juang (Jensen)
Social Impact: 3 | Economic Impact: 9 | Political Influence: 4 | Family Duplication: 5
Influence: 5.20
Shanahan (Mike & Kyle)
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 4 | Political Influence: 2 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 4.70
Harbough (John & Jim)
Social Impact: 6 | Economic Impact: 4 | Political Influence: 2 | Family Duplication: 6
Influence: 4.70
The Valuetainment Media Team contributed to this article.
Great R&D to produce this wonderful read!
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