The genius of the American people is so diverse, it reaches every activity and discipline and facet of our lives. A list of the top 100 will leave off many who are/were the very best at what they do/did. So a list of the top five is an abomination. It is an attempt to squeeze ten pounds into a five pound bag - sheer folly. The fact the current top five left off FDR who was outpolled by the current resident at 1600 Pennsylvamia Avenue is proof of the folly. But the selection was good exercise in acknowledging our past history and heritage and deeds and inventions and cures and courage and  accomplishments as these knot together in such a way that any extension serves to point to our future and that is good. We are not going to suddenly stop being great: it is not possible! But no FDR? Surely you jest!