I find it ridiculous how people compare Itachi to the past Hokages. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and the 4th woulda all owned Itachi easily. I believe even Tsunade can beat Itachi...cuz there's no way she can lose to him. She can do that jutsu with her forehead, and keep on fighting (if she's willing to risk her life span to win that battle). Also Tsunades only fear is blood, that mange sharingan...I doub't it'll work on people on Hokage level; Jiraiya, Orochimaru, past Hokages, etc.

The 3rd was indeed the STRONGEST, MOST WISE, and he did most for the village, he contributed way more than anyone (excluding the 4th sacrificing himself for the village) BUT I believe the 4th wasn't even in his prime before he died, I bet he woulda met his prime if he lived longer.