Ohio, known as the “Buckeye State,” has been a cradle of innovation and talent, giving rise to some of the most influential figures in American history. These individuals have made significant contributions in various fields, from space exploration and invention to literature and sports. Below is a list of some of the most famous people from Ohio, celebrated for their unique achievements, historic impact, and popularity.
Famous People from Ohio
Neil Armstrong (1930-2012) Nationality: American Known For: Astronaut, First Moon Landing Neil Armstrong, a native of Wapakoneta, Ohio, was the first person to walk on the moon, marking a significant moment in space exploration. |
Thomas Edison (1847-1931) Nationality: American Known For: Invention, Phonograph, Light Bulb Born in Milan, Ohio, Thomas Edison was an inventor and businessman known for developing the phonograph and the electric light bulb. |
Toni Morrison (1931-2019) Nationality: American Known For: Novelist, Nobel Prize in Literature Toni Morrison, from Lorain, Ohio, was a Nobel Prize-winning novelist known for her rich storytelling and exploration of the African American experience. |
LeBron James (1984-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Professional Basketball LeBron James, from Akron, is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. |
John Glenn (1921-2016) Nationality: American Known For: Astronaut, First American to Orbit Earth John Glenn, from Cambridge, was the first American to orbit the Earth and later became the oldest person to fly in space. |
Dorothy Dandridge (1922-1965) Nationality: American Known For: Actress, Singer Dorothy Dandridge, an actress and singer from Cleveland, was the first African American actress to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. |
Steven Spielberg (1946-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Filmmaking Steven Spielberg, a filmmaker from Cincinnati, is one of the most influential directors in the history of cinema. |
Annie Oakley (1860-1926) Nationality: American Known For: Sharpshooting, Exhibition Shooting Born in Darke County, Ohio, Annie Oakley was a renowned sharpshooter and exhibition shooter. Her exceptional talent led to a starring role in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show. |
Halle Berry (1966-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting Halle Berry, an actress from Cleveland, is an Academy Award winner and a trailblazer for African American actresses in Hollywood. |
Katherine Johnson (1918-2020) Nationality: American Known For: Mathematics, Spaceflight Calculations Katherine Johnson was a mathematician whose work on orbital mechanics was vital to the success of U.S. crewed spaceflights. She spent significant time in Ohio, though born in West Virginia. |
Dean Martin (1917-1995) Nationality: American Known For: Singing, Acting Dean Martin, from Steubenville, was a beloved singer and actor, known for his charismatic performances in music and film. |
Gloria Steinem (1934-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Feminism, Journalism, Activism Born in Toledo, Ohio, Gloria Steinem is a celebrated feminist, journalist, and social political activist, known as a leading figure in the American feminist movement. |
Sarah Jessica Parker (1965-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting Sarah Jessica Parker, an actress from Nelsonville, is known for her leading role in ‘Sex and the City’ and her success in film and television. |
Jack Nicklaus (1940-Present) Nationality: American Known For: Golf Jack Nicklaus, a legendary golfer from Columbus, is regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, with a record 18 major championships. |
Clark Gable (1901-1960) Nationality: American Known For: Acting Clark Gable, an actor from Cadiz, was a major Hollywood star and is best remembered for his role in ‘Gone with the Wind.’ |