This President's Term Was Shorter Than Your Lunch Break. This Happened On Feb 19, 1913

In the annals of political history, where leaders rise and fall, Pedro Lascuráin holds a unique place. He was the President of Mexico for less than an hour in 1913 — the shortest presidential term ever. Imagine the inauguration speech. Born in Mexico City in 1858, Lascuráin was no stranger to politics.

A lawyer by trade, he climbed the political ladder, eventually becoming the mayor of his hometown in 1910. But his ascent to the presidency was less about ambition and more about being in the wrong place at the right time — or perhaps — the right place at the wrong time.

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Mexico in 1913 was a nation in turmoil. President Porfirio Díaz, who had ruled for over three decades, finally stepped down, opening the door for Francisco Madero. However, Madero's administration was short-lived, as General Victoriano Huerta orchestrated a coup.

Here’s where Lascuráin enters centre stage. As the foreign minister, he was in the line of succession. Huerta forced Madero and his Vice-President to resign. To legitimise his power grab, Huerta needed a 'temporary president' to appoint him as interior minister, making him next in line. Lascuráin was that man.

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Lascuráin assumed the presidency and in a move that could be described as the political equivalent of a hot potato, appointed Huerta as his interior minister. Then, he resigned. The entire charade lasted anywhere from 15-45 minutes.

Huerta's actions were far from honourable. He had assured President Madero and Vice-President Suárez that they would be safe after they resigned, but he ultimately had them executed. Despite his brief time in office, Lascuráin's actions had consequences.

What happened to Lascuráin? Unlike Huerta, who faced rebellion and exile, Lascuráin managed to stay out of the fray. He returned to his law practice and quietly lived out his days. He died in 1952.

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