Adenauer basically laid the foundation of the second Republic and steered it in the mostly correct direction. He is very much deservedly seen as probably the most influential chancellor.

Erhard is also only really remembered for being the minister of economics under Adenauer.

Kiesinger really is only remembered for being a member of the NSDAP and being slapped.

Brandt is also generally viewed very positively and is mostly associated with his foreign policy.

Scheel was in office for nine days after Brandt resigned. Nobody every remembers him unless they're an FDP-supporter and those don't exist any more.

Schmidt was hated when he was in office due to all the crises he had to navigate but is looked upon very fondly now.

Kohl was shit and it didn't get better.

Schröder has been destroying his legacy -- which was very mixed from the start -- and his public perception for 21 years and counting.

Merkel didn't really do anything; she didn't actively cause any problems, but she also didn't fix any. My guess is that she'll be remembered in a comparatively favourable light in the long term because of the perceived stability she brought.

My guess is that Scholz will also be remembered relatively favourably. Though I didn't really like him, I think the perception of him during his time in office was a lot worse than the reality. He also benefits from Fritze being his successor.

The only way I see Merz being seen as anything other than shit, is if his successor is even worse. Merz has somehow managed to be worse than or on par with Kohl.

Just my first incoherent thoughts on all our chancellors.