John Ames Mitchell's 'The Last American' is a satirical novella that transports the reader into a dystopian future where an expedition from Persia explores the ruins of America. Mitchell's prose weaves between biting satire and melancholic reflection, offering a vivid cultural critique. Written at the end of the 19th century, this work reflects the anxieties of its time, juxtapositioning the rise and fall of civilizations and the presumption of American exceptionalism. His clever use of a foreign perspective to dissect the cultural and political foibles of the United States enthralls readers with its historical insight and pioneering literary context. As both an artifact and commentary, 'The Last American' deftly employs the format of a fragmented journal to capture its narrative, a stylistic choice that enhances its thematic resonance with contemporary discussions on empire and decline. Mitchell, a multifaceted artist and editor, arguably funnels his apprehensions and critiques of his own Gilded Age society into the creation of 'The Last American.' His diverse career as an illustrator, architect, and co-founder of the influential magazine 'Life,' certainly informed his satirical acuity and concern with the cultural direction of his nation. Such a background explains the visual and architectural precision with which he reconstructs a future America for his readers' imagination. This republished edition by DigiCat Publishing extends an invitation to literary aficionados and cultural historians alike. 'The Last American' serves as a timeless reflection on societal hubris and a prescient warning of hubristic decline. In an era where the equilibrium of global power continually shifts, this tale resonates with a newfound pertinence, urging a careful consideration of the patterns of history. Readers will appreciate its wit, historical foresight, and the author's craft in constructing a narrative that remains as thought-provoking now as it was over a century ago.