With the Egyptian public itching for a full investigation of the old regime, it’s certain that we’ll be hearing a lot of negative things about Hosni Mubarak in coming weeks and months. It is true that he condoned the abuse of his citizens, perpetuated a system of endemic corruption, and did everything he could to prevent democratization, but let’s not forget the things that made Hosni so lovable.

1. His Contagious Laugh

Widely considered the funniest of the despots, Hosni knew how to light up a room with laughter—which was often the product of his own jokes. From the Arab League summits to meetings with American presidents, he took every chance he got to earn the nickname, "La Vache qui Rit." 

2. That Hair

Epic dye job or genetic gift, who really cares? Hosni’s hair was the envy of many a dictator and certainly a few democratically-elected leaders as well (I’m looking at you Silvio). Rumor has it Crayola invented the color “Midnight Black” just so Egyptian children could color pictures of the president.

3. Suzanne Mubarak  

Philanthropist, song writer, and bouffant and pearls aficionado, Hosni’s better half was a role model for authoritarian wives everywhere. How can you not love a woman who wrote tacky paeans to peace while her husband ran a regime built on the systematic repression and torture of his opponents? 

4. The Suits

Hosni nobly resisted the temptation to dress like a lunatic (à la Gaddafi or Kim Jong-il) and instead opted for a simple and understated style characterized by his suits with H-O-S-N-Y-M-U-B-A-R-A-K pinstripes. Despotism never looked so dapper.

-Evan