One President by Ambrose Bierce
ONE PRESIDENT by Ambrose Bierce is a short story that follows the tale of a man who becomes the President of a fictional country called Absolutia. The story explores themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The protagonist, who remains anonymous throughout the story, rises to power through a series of calculated moves and strategic alliances. However, as he gains more control over Absolutia, he becomes increasingly paranoid and isolated, surrounded only by sycophants and spies. The story culminates in a dramatic and tragic ending, as the President's descent into madness and tyranny leads to his downfall and the collapse of his regime. Throughout the narrative, Bierce employs a distinctive style that blends dark humor with social commentary, creating a thought-provoking and unsettling read.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1872 · Genre: Political Fiction, Historical Fiction, Satire · 158 words
First lines
"What are those, father?" "Statesmen, my child -- Lacrymose, unparliamentary, wild."
"What are they that way for, father?" "Last fall, 'Our candidate's better,' they said, 'than all!"
"What did they say he was, father?" "A man Built on a straight incorruptible plan -- Believing that none for an office would do Unless he were honest and capable too."
"Poor gentlemen -- "so" disappointed!" "Yes, lad, That is the feeling that's driving them mad; They're weeping and wailing and gnashing because They find that he's all that they said that he was."
What this Textopian page supports
One President is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1872 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1872 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Political Fiction, Historical Fiction, Satire
- Length: 158 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for One President by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering One President?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Political Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Two Politicians by Ambrose Bierce
- The City Of Political Distinction by Ambrose Bierce
- A Statesman by Ambrose Bierce
- The Politicians And The Plunder by Ambrose Bierce
- The Ingenious Patriot by Ambrose Bierce
- The Politicians by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Political Fiction — The title 'ONE PRESIDENT' suggests a focus on politics, particularly the role of the Presidency.
- Historical Fiction — Ambrose Bierce's works often centered around historical events, which could suggest the book's contents may pertain to this genre.
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce was known for his biting wit and satirical style, which may be reflected in this book.
Tags
political satire · fiction · short story · humor · presidential fiction · American literature · historical fiction · satirical fiction · social commentary · politics · government · leadership