Number 12: The Importance of Being Bearded

I am continually amazed at the incredible impact which untamed facial hair has had on the history of great things. Something special, it seems, happens when a man's face falls out of familiarity with the blade and is allowed to express its full potential. Indeed, all men's faces were naked once, but some put down the razor and let the greatness grow. You show me a man with an exposed face and I will show you a man with a beard who is destined to change history.

Fact: Beards matter.

Ironically enough, Oscar Wilde, whose play (The Importance of Being Earnest) inspired my exceedingly witty title, did not have a beard. But here are some men who did. They simply would not shave...and thank God.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. There are many bearded men who will unfortunately be left off this list.

Walt Whitman

For me, when it comes to beards, it all starts with Walt Whitman. I imagine him plucking "Leaves of Grass" from somewhere deep in his facial adornment and laying it on paper. Had he shaved, we may be without some of the greatest poetry our country has ever produced.

Alan Moore

This is the beard that birthed Watchmen, V for Vendetta and The Killing Joke (the comic work to which The Dark Knight and Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker is indebted). If you had that kind of genius growing out of your face, would you shave?

Ray LaMontagne

If you listen to Ray then you don't need my explanation. If you don't, look at the beard, look up the tunes and get LaMontagne'd.

Sam Beam

Living proof that all you really need is a beard and a guitar. I suppose being one of the best singer/songwriters of a generation helps too. But...look at the beard. Lyrics as beautiful as Beam's could only be properly sung from a mouth surrounded by such art.

Abraham Lincoln

Go ahead, argue with this one. Please.

Kimbo Slice

Is anyone really surprised that this guy takes part in what amounts to officiated street fighting? Without the beard, you could beat him up.

Karl Marx

Karl Marx has enough beard to go around. (No I'm not a communist...well...not I'm not)

Frederick Douglass

An abolitionist, a womens suffragist and general supporter of equal rights. Lots of people should be grateful for this beard.

Some Guy

I don't know who this guy is, but I sincerely think that the world is a better place because of his beard. The guy has 4 smiles going on there. That is happiness that only an untamed face can bring.

Notable Bearded Men Who Are Not Picture Here:
Jesus Christ
Henry David Thoreau
Ryan Campagna
My Grandfather

Men Who Have Either Chosen Not To Or Are Unable To Grow A Beard But Are Still Significant And Deserve Mention:
J.D. Salinger
Brad Pitt (Though he has shown he is capable)
Jason Hermansdorfer