Historical influences

Published in 1896, 1900; or, The Last President reflects the political climate of late 19th century America. The nation faced economic inequality, labor disputes, and rising populism symbolized by figures like William Jennings Bryan. The working class experienced economic pressures that led to conflicts between industrial magnates and laborers. Lockwood's narrative addresses these societal tensions, depicting a dystopian America under a populist presidency. Mob actions in New York City, driven by socialist and anarchist movements, reflect the era's volatility and economic divides. Lockwood critiques the chaotic and divisive impact of unchecked populism, addressing the societal fears and anxieties of this transformative period.

Themes

Lockwood's book explores themes of populism, economic instability, and societal upheaval. The narrative parallels 19th-century apprehensions with contemporary issues. The United States in the story teeters on the brink as economic disparity ignites the rise of disenchanted masses driven by anarchist and socialist ideologies. A scene in New York City describes chaos as crowds mobilize, with populist sentiments reflected in chants like “Bryan is elected! Our day has come at last. Down with our oppressors!” This turmoil shows shifts in political currents and economic hardships paralleling today’s global populist trends. Lockwood critiques populism’s unfulfilled promises and potential risks. The portrayal of societal disarray prompts consideration of democratic systems' vulnerabilities, as economic and social tensions can incite unrest. These concerns resonate in today’s political climate, underscoring the enduring relevance of Lockwood’s themes.

Parallels with modern politics

Lockwood's 1900, Or: The Last President appears to connect with contemporary political events, especially those during the Trump presidency. The novel depicts New York City in turmoil after a populist candidate's election, which led to protests. This scenario resembles the atmosphere following Donald Trump's election. The story aligns with real-world political changes seen in unexpected electoral outcomes and widespread public demonstrations. Lockwood's narrative predicts modern debates on populism and democracy's potential weaknesses. These themes have renewed interest in Lockwood's work, leading readers to consider the relevance of his story in today's political context.

Cultural impact and rediscovery

• Social media interest: The 2016 election renewed focus on 1900, Or: The Last President. Readers noted parallels between the book's narrative and the contemporary political landscape, leading to increased discussions on social media about its perceived relevance during Donald Trump's presidency.

• Media attention: Various media outlets covered the novel, focusing on its apparent insight into a politically unstable America. Analyses frequently addressed its depiction of societal discord and themes of populism and political outsiders.

• Reader engagement: Platforms like Goodreads experienced a rise in discussions. Readers described the novel as "predictive programming." The narrative's echoes in current events, particularly those involving a contentious political figure, prompted further examination.

• Cultural significance: The book transcended its literary status to become a part of political and social discussions. It serves as a reference point for theories about historical patterns and the effects of populism, encouraging reflection on recurring historical themes.

Quick facts

• Ingersoll Lockwood's novel 1900, Or: The Last President was published in 1896 by The American News Company.

• The novel gained renewed popularity post-2017 due to perceived parallels with contemporary political events.

• The book's revival was significantly linked to its similarities with Donald Trump's presidency.

• It tells the story of a populist leader's ascent to power, causing social and political turmoil.

• The narrative explicitly includes themes of political corruption, class struggles, and societal chaos after a disputed election.

• The events in the novel eerily echo real-life political protests and disturbances around past presidential elections.

• Lockwood's depiction of intense political unrest in New York City parallels events involving the Trump Tower during Trump's presidency.

• Economic and monetary policies and their populist context serve as critical themes in the novel.

• Mob violence and social disorder described in the book reflect historical fears of societal destabilization.

• The story involves anarchist and socialist-led mobs threatening the wealthy, emphasizing class conflicts.

• Initially overlooked, Lockwood’s works, including his series on a fictional character, Baron Trump, have seen a resurgence due to coincidental similarities with the Trump family.

About the author

Brianna Wiest is an American writer specializing in self-help and personal development. She graduated from Elizabethtown College with a degree in professional writing. Wiest contributed to platforms like Thought Catalog and Huffington Post, focusing on wellness and personal growth. Her book 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think is well-regarded. Wiest has also authored The Mountain Is You and The Truth About Everything, establishing her role in contemporary self-help literature.