BRIDGET'S GUIDE TO THE GREAT, NOT-S0-GREAT AND DOWNRIGHT ABOMINABLE AMERICAN PRESIDENTS

9) WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON

 

President from March 4 1841 to April 4, 1841, which means...

...he died in office after serving one month!

In the 1840 election, the Democrats mocked Harrison labelling him the `Petticoat General" because he resigned from the army before the war of 1812 was over. They also tried to make spelling his surname backwards--so it read NO SIRRAH--a thing.

He delivered the longest inaugural address in history, running over two hours.

He was the first sitting President to have his photograph taken.

On March 26, 1841, Harrison caught a cold. He died nine days later of what doctors diagnosed as pneumonia of the lower lobe of the right lung.

He was the first President to die in office.

His last words, spoken to his doctor, but addressed to his VP, John Tyler, were, "Sir, I wish you to understand the true principles of government. I wish them carried out. I ask nothing more."

Due to his death, three presidents--Martin Van Buren, Harrison and John Tyler--held the position within a single year. Even more amazing, this would occur  again within 40 years of Harrison's death.