Presidential Leadership: 15 Decisions that Changed the Nation

by Nick Ragone

Why did George Washington personally lead the militia that put down the Whiskey Rebellion? What drove Harry Truman to fire Douglas MacArthur at the height of the Korean War? Did Gerald Ford know that his pardon of Richard Nixon could very well end his political career? Why did John F. Kennedy challenge America to reach for the moon? This book examines more than a dozen major decisions of the presidency-Truman dropping the Bomb; Nixon going to China; Jefferson purchasing the Louisiana Territory-and the stories behind them. Told in a crisp, narrative writing style, the author brings the presidency and its big decisions to life with his unique storytelling and pacing, and highlights the lessons to be learned. Some of the decisions are well known; others are not. But they're all told in a way that will keep you turning the pages to learn more. Each chapter stands as a study in leadership and decision-making. By the end of the book, you'll be an expert in the men and the decisions that shaped the country, and the lessons that can be learned from their leadership and often their courage. With a concluding chapter that assesses President Obama's first year in office and reviews his major decisions, this lively, illuminating book will appeal to history buffs, devotees of politics, students, and anyone interested in decision-making at the highest and most influential level.

Genres: Nonfiction

336 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2011

Reviews

[Klarysa Crape]

Loved this book! The author does a wonderful job in crafting thoughtful, absorbing stories that place the reader right in the president’s mindset. All the quotes, writings and commentary of the specific presidencies effectively contribute to a convincing storyline about each monumental decision made by 15 presidents across US history. My favorite part were the humorous quotes made by presidents and staff (look in the end notes for more), which helped illustrate their thought process in making each significant decision.