The Dude President

Chester A. Arthur, also referred to as "The Dude President," has without a doubt earned the title the coolest president. It is strange that a man who consistently rates among the least memorable presidents would receive such a stylish nickname, but it makes sense given that the word's meaning at the time was slightly different.

Because Arthur installed a rug in the Oval Office that truly brought the space together, he didn't get the nickname "The Dude." Instead, he acquired it as a result of his adoration for clothes, frills, and the finer things in life. A "dude" back then essentially meant a "dandy," a young man who was totally committed to the newest trends.

Chester A. Arthur was one of such people. During his tenure in power, stories about his costly habits spread widely. He spent more than $30,000 in 1880 dollars only to refurbish and glam up the White House for his festivities. He had a wardrobe that would put any modern heiress or fashionista to shame, filled with silk top hats and pricey clothing and shoes imported from Europe.

Arthur also didn't fit the mold of a typical workaholic. He was undoubtedly a man who loved his downtime. Naturally, the term "dude" was used in a derogatory manner in Arthur's day, but he didn't appear to mind too much because he knew the golden rule: the Dude abides.

• 21st President of the United States

In office: September 19, 1881 – March 4, 1885
Vice President: None
Preceded by: James A. Garfield
Succeeded by: Grover Cleveland