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Presidential Biographies in memory of Regina
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Glad you are still continuing on Jason. I think I've got myself back on track for now. Hoping for a calmer year in 2025 though I might have to have foot surgery which would mean I couldn't walk for 10 weeks. I guess the upside would be more reading time.
Joy D wrote: "Nice review, Jason! I hope to get back on track in reading these biographies now that the two huge PBT challenges of last year are behind me. :-)"
Yeah, those challenges looked....challenging.
I look forward to your reviews of the Presidents.
Rachel N. wrote: "Glad you are still continuing on Jason. I think I've got myself back on track for now. Hoping for a calmer year in 2025 though I might have to have foot surgery which would mean I couldn't walk for..."Oh no! If you must have surgery, I hope the procedure goes well and recovery is quick is smooth. But definitely milk it and get lost in some good books.
I finished my book on Grant right on time, hooray for getting back on track! I'm waiting for the Hayes book to come into the library.Grant- Jean Edward Smith 3 stars
This is a thorough biography of Grant though I'd say leaning a bit too much in seeing Grant's positives. There were several scandals during Grant's presidency but not much time is spent in the book on them. I'd say at least half the book is spent on the Civil War. Every battle where Grant was a commander is covered in great detail. If you are interested in the Civil War that part of the book at least I recommend. Overall I did come away understanding a lot more about Grant and appreciating his skills as a General even if they didn't transfer that well to being president.
I didn't realize it when I picked it but Regina also read this book for Grant so here is her review:
The very first presidential biography I read was one on Grant when I was ten years old.
While historically ranked near the bottom in lists of effective presidents, Grant was the only man re-elected between Lincoln and Wilson. He even came close to being nominated for a third term. What is most surprising is that the presidency was Grant's first forray in elected office.
Smith provides a good, readable overview of Grant. However, he falls into the easiest trap for a biography. I can appreicate admiration for a subject. While Smith points out many areas Grant deserves credit; unfortunately, he gives Grant a pass on the areas where Grant is rightfully criticized. For this reason alone I could not provide the fifth star.
If ever there were a man that followed in the path of a Greek mythological character, a great man with a fatal flaw, it would be Grant. An abject failure in private life he lead his family into poverty as he tried his hand at a myriad of financial investments that all failed. It wasn't until he found his way into military life that his family was adequately cared for. Under the tutelage of Zachary Taylor in the Mexican War Grant learned lessons that would guide his leadership style. Smith portrays Grant as a compassionate and just general, treating the rebel Confederate leaders with courtesy but demanding surrender. Through the Civil War, his relationship with Lincoln influenced his view on slavery and laid the foundation for his philosophy on suffrage, Native American issues, and Reconstruction.
Where I think Smith shines is contrasting the skills and character that helped Grant succeed as a General but did not necessarily serve him well in politics. In the field holding his cards close to the vest was a reasonable strategy. In politics, dealing with Congress and their expected privileges - not so much. Grant was an excellent general in chief because he set a goal for the commanders but allowed them to execute tactics according to conditions on the ground. A delegator as a president can work. But, in my opinion, to maximize this leadership style, the president needs capable and trustworthy cabinet members. Grant did not always surround hiimself with such men.
Grant was definitely flawed. History is aware of his alcoholism, and Smith shows when he was at his weakest (when he was away from Julia) and how his relapses provided fodder for his enemies, often floating rumors about his relapse as a weapon. More importantly was his inability to ask critical questions of those for whom he felt a deep sense of loyalty. Whether it was private financial investments or those he nominated for political posts this was ultimately his undoing.
I do recommend the book. But, I don't think you can read just this one book to get a good understanding of Grant.
Jason wrote: "I read two books for Garfield. I wanted his overall biography, but this book was so highly rated I had to read it too. [book:Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of..."
Loved this book, told me so much I did not know about his demise
Rachel N. wrote: "Glad you are still continuing on Jason. I think I've got myself back on track for now. Hoping for a calmer year in 2025 though I might have to have foot surgery which would mean I couldn't walk for..."Rachel, not sure if you count on books from your library, but I do know that a lot of them will arrive right to your door if there is a need
Thanks Joanne. I'm going to have my mom travel here to help with the driving because I am going to have surgery around may. I'm sure she'd be happy to go by the library but it's nice to know there are other options.
Well, blah on the surgery, but at least in the Spring and Summer you can sit outside in the sunshine and do your reading.
Gentleman Boss: The Life of Chester Alan Arthur - Thomas C. Reeves - 3 StarsThe 21st President of the United States
“No man ever entered the Presidency so profoundly and widely distrusted as Chester Alan Arthur, and no one ever retired […] more generally respected, alike by political friend and foe.”
Chester Arthur was an interesting President and confounding man. A self-interested party man and corrupt politician. A man best behind the scenes. He accidently became President through the death of President Garfield and...he changed. No more corruption, no more helping friendly out pure party and faction loyalty. That is the way Reeves presents Arthur.
I have seen sources that tell a slightly different story, but it is an interesting thought that, once obtaining the most revered seat in the nation, common good outweighs corruption.
This biography is very repetitive and not really chronological. There were times I thought I had advanced forward in time only to be reminded with a date, that time had stood still, at times leaving me confused.
A thorough biography of Arthurs political career though short on his personal life. He seemed to be a man that excelled at the politics but flailed at the administrative work. He never wanted to be President, never had aspirations for the presidency. His death through sickness was sad as he knew what approached. He used his Presidency to sure up his reputation it seemed.
I had read a few tomes about Grant, so I picked a shorter book this time:Ulysses S. Grant by Josiah Bunting - 4* - My Review
Josiah Bunting III's biography of Ulysses S. Grant differs from the plethora of material available on Grant in that it is short. He hits the highlights of Grant's younger years as a West Point student, his service during the American Civil War as one of the Union's most effective generals, and his Presidency. The book provides a good idea of Grant’s personal characteristics, such as his strategic brilliance, gritty determination, and ability to learn from mistakes.
Grant listened to others’ viewpoints without disclosing much about his own opinions. He occasionally seemed rather naïve, assuming honorable intentions where they were not always present. While acknowledging Grant's shortcomings and corruption scandals that plagued his administration, Bunting points out that Grant's commitment to Reconstruction and civil rights for freed slaves demonstrated his moral courage and forward-thinking leadership. The biography serves as a concise (200 pages) yet insightful introduction to Grant's life.
On to Hayes!
Grover Cleveland: A Study in Character - Alyn Brodsky - 4 StarsThis biography of Grover Cleveland, the 22 and 24 President of the United States, is just what the title says. This biography focuses greatly on Cleveland's character, who is generally considered the most honest President.
After a meteoric rise in politics, he became President really because he had no marks against him. As President, he stuck to his principles and beliefs even when it was to his own disadvantage. His second term was much different. His unyielding stubbornness led to a difficult Presidency and tarnished his view as President. The author makes the case that Cleveland has been proved over time, if stubborn, correct yet is overlooked as a great President because of his unwillingness to compromise or to adjust his views when advantageous to his own reputation.
A good biography and I find it interesting that several of the debates today (tariffs) were also a major issue during Cleveland's Presidency.
I finished my Hayes book and close to on time too :-). I have Destiny of the Republic already so I'm ready to continue on with Garfield. Foot surgery is scheduled for the middle of May so hopefully whatever book I pick for Arthur will be interesting.Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior and President-Ari hoogenboom 3 stars
This was an interesting biography on the 19th president of th U.S. Hayes isn't usually ranked that high among presidents but the author does make a case for Hayes doing some good despite reconstruction ending under his watch. I was most interested in the parts about Hayes relationship with his wife and kids and the work he did after he was president. He was a firm believer in education for all and in prison reform. The parts of the book detailling Hayes fights to maintain the gold standard of currency were boring. Overall I think the author did a good job covering a president who isn't studied much in U.S. schools.
I'm just finding this thread, I am not sure who Regina was, but she sounds like an amazing person to inspire you to start this challenge. I've always been a fan of US Grant and I think it's a shame his name and deeds have been maligned so much. He lead an interesting life and his biographies are deservedly thick. However, for anyone looking for a shorter read, I would recommend, To Rescue the Republic: Ulysses S. Grant, the Fragile Union, and the Crisis of 1876 by Bret Baier. The books focus is on the 1876 election and US Grant's successor to the Presidency, but also gives a good primer for his life and deeds. Well researched and (I think) balanced in it's writing, it's a good introduction to the life of Grant.
Welcome Kristen! I forgot to mention in my review of the Hayes book how interesting the discussion of his election was, which I think could definitely be argued that Tilden actually won. Please feel free to join in with any reviews of presidential biographies you may read.Regina was a long time member, though she was more active when this group was on Shelfari. She died rather unexpectdely and as I knew she had been doing this challenge I wanted to do it and hopefully complete it to honor her. A few other members wanted to do the challenge too so this thread was created. We've unfortunately had a few long time members die and we usually do some sort of reading event to remember them.
Benjamin Harrison: Hoosier Warrior: 1 - Harry J. Sievers - 4 StarsIn researching the best biography for Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd President of the United States, I ran into books that didn't do a good job or volumes. I decided on the volumes and am glad I did.
Benjamin Harrison: Hoosier Warrior: 1 covers 1833-1865
Benjamin Harrison Vol. 2: Hoosier Statesman covers 1865-1888
And since Volume 3 was revied as rushed and lacked depth, I will finish with The Presidency of Benjamin Harrison by Homer E. Socolofsky.
This is one of the most in-depth biographies of a President I have read but it never feels dry. It gives a looking into the maturation and path Harrison is lead down as well as chooses. How he paves his own path while also having to live up the standards of being the grandson of a President. How he joined the newly formed Republican party even though his father did not approve and his bold and honorable actions in forming and commanding a regiment in the Civil War, eventually earning the rank Brevet Brigadier General.
I look forward to reading the next section of Harrison's life as he enters more strongly into the political arena.
Wow Jason you are going all out on reading about Harrison! Hope the next two books are as good as the first was.
Awesome, Jason! I seem to have put this challenge aside again. I need to get back on track.
Rachel N. wrote: "Wow Jason you are going all out on reading about Harrison! Hope the next two books are as good as the first was."Yeah, I've hated when there isn't a full or well researched biography on a President. A few between Van Buren and Lincoln I had to settle for subpar biographies. I like full life biographies, not just of their political career.
Garfield book completed and I'm still staying on track :-)Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President-Candice Millard 3 stas
This book mainly covers the assasination attempt on President Garfield and the 80 days following that until he died from an infection caused by doctors trying to "treat" the bullet wound. There was a bit on Garfield's early life but not a lot. I would like to go back and read a more in depth biography of him after I finish reading a biography for every U.S. president. I thought the information about the shooter and about the care, or lack of it, Garfield recieved after the shooting was interesting. I am still really mad at the main doctor who treated him, Bliss, for being the cause of an infection that spread throughout Garfield's body. Garfield sufffered quite a lot of needless pain due to Bliss ignoring the findings of Lister about antiseptics. I didn't really like the parts of the book devoted to Alexander Graham Bell and his trying to create a device to find the bullet in Garfield. It was tangential to the main story and not really needed.
I have the book I'm reading on Arthur on hand. Hopefully it will keep me entertained during the upcoming foot surgery. I'll have to spend two weeks with my foot mainly elevated. I'll only be able to stand, with no weight on the operated on foot, for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time.
1) Benjamin Harrison Vol. 2: Hoosier Statesman - Harry J. Sievers - 3 Stars2) The Presidency of Benjamin Harrison - Homer E. Socolofsky - 3 Stars
1) Volume 2 covers Benjamins Harrison's life after the Civil War as a lawyer, Govenor, and Congressman, up to the point of being elected.
I enjoyed Volume 1 better as this part of Harrison's life is less eventful but takes up more pages. A reluctant politician, Harrison uses not being in the forefront of politics or scandal to his advantage to rapidly being a prominent member of the Republican Party. His greatest asset seems to be his speech making ability, and like several Presidents before, becomes the dark horse, second choice candidate to win the nomination.
2) Based on a website that reviews and ranks Presidential biographies, I chose to replace Benjamin Harrison Vol. 3: Hoosier President: The White House & After 1889-1901 by Harry J. Sievers with The Presidency of Benjamin Harrison as a better biography of Harrison's Presidency.
This biography focuses on the accomplishments of Harrison's Presidency and then the difficulties he faced after losing Congressional support in the second half of his Presidency. It tackles each issue and is not so much chronological.
Scolofsky does not comment much on Harrison's personal life and gives only a brief overview of Harrison's life after the Presidency.
I did enjoy the debate between the Republicans and Democrats on the tarriffs, reciprocity of trade agreements, and bring in silver as the main money standard. Some of this sounds very familiar.
William McKinley and His America - H. Wayne Morgan - 4 StarsA super relevant President and issues to our day today, Morgan does a great job capturing McKinley, a man of the people. During his time, the issues revolved around the tariffs, protection vs reciprocity vs free trade. (sound familiar?) and money, whether to stay 100% on the gold standard, switch to silver, or form a bimetal policy. (bitcoin?) And he delt with expansion issues such as the Philippines and Cuba (Greenland, Canada?) And he laid the groundwork for the Panama Canal that Teddy Roosevelt continued (Panama Canal?)
McKinley was a man who had a sixth sense for understanding the tide of the nation. At one time backing silver and later changing to the gold standard. He handled issue with silence and reflection. He swayed those to his side through allowing them to think they had convinced him. He was happy to delegate to those he trusted and stuck by some far longer than necessary. He trusted the people and believed he owed citizens access to its President. He was known for not making enemies, staying silent until he felt he best understood the citizens wishes and the rhetoric died down. This belief of the love of everyone, obligation to be accessible, and belief he had no enemies, lead to his being shot and killed by an anarchist.
A great biography that is super relevant. The issues are similar but the way they are being handled are drastically different
For Teddy Roosevelt, I am again reading a three-volume set. The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt - Edmund Morris
Theodore Rex - Edmund Morris
Colonel Roosevelt - Edmund Morris
Wow! You are making great progress! And reading in depth. I am impressed (while still making no progress of my own).
Impressive Jason! I'm slowly making my way through Arthur. I've been spending more time with my mom than reading which is good.
Joy D wrote: "Wow! You are making great progress! And reading in depth. I am impressed (while still making no progress of my own)."I keep a Biography on my phone and try to read at least 1 chapter a day, no matter what else I'm reading. Slow and steady.
John Adams by David McCullough 5 stars
To me, history ought to be a source of pleasure. It isn't just part of our civic responsibility. To me, it's an enlargement of the experience of being alive, just the way literature or art or music is."- David McCullough
“The narrator should be almost transparent. I want to avoid getting in the author's way and try to identify with the author."- Nelson Runger
At the age of 51, I acknowledge that I don’t know much about history and I want to change that. What little I did learn in school was probably something along the lines of “ John Adams was the second President of the United States and his wife was Abigail”. Also some reference to the Revolutionary War but who cares? Not like I needed to know about something that happened, in my mind at an early age, of something so long ago.
Mccullough’s book did exactly what he thought history should be. A joy and pleasure to listen to. While there were times I didn’t find parts as interesting such as the time Adams went to Amsterdam and France, it is only because my knowledge is limited but still it was fascinating to know more about.
John Adams read Latin and Greek, was well read and mentioned how his favorite author was Marcus Tillius Cicero and Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra lamenting at one point he had nothing to read. He was 25! At that age I was still a goth clubbing and drinking and the books I read were more bodice rippers and vampires in those days.
McCullough’s book is long at just over 700 pages or 29 hours to listen. I came away feeling that I was starting my history journey and taking charge of wanting to know more about history and those that fought and died for our new country. John Adams will always be my recommendation for those that want to know more about the man and the Revolutionary War.
It is never too late to learn about history and learn about those that came before us. McCullough and Runger both made history fun, knowledgeable, and I came away learning so much! Another favorite listen this year.
I included several books on my TBR that were mentioned that John Adams read which I have not read. I love the idea of reading these and knowing that Adams read the same words so long ago.
Don Quixote
Common Sense
Selected Works
To me, history ought to be a source of pleasure. It isn't just part of our civic responsibility. To me, it's an enlargement of the experience of being alive, just the way literature or art or music is."- David McCullough
“The narrator should be almost transparent. I want to avoid getting in the author's way and try to identify with the author."- Nelson Runger
At the age of 51, I acknowledge that I don’t know much about history and I want to change that. What little I did learn in school was probably something along the lines of “ John Adams was the second President of the United States and his wife was Abigail”. Also some reference to the Revolutionary War but who cares? Not like I needed to know about something that happened, in my mind at an early age, of something so long ago.
Mccullough’s book did exactly what he thought history should be. A joy and pleasure to listen to. While there were times I didn’t find parts as interesting such as the time Adams went to Amsterdam and France, it is only because my knowledge is limited but still it was fascinating to know more about.
John Adams read Latin and Greek, was well read and mentioned how his favorite author was Marcus Tillius Cicero and Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra lamenting at one point he had nothing to read. He was 25! At that age I was still a goth clubbing and drinking and the books I read were more bodice rippers and vampires in those days.
McCullough’s book is long at just over 700 pages or 29 hours to listen. I came away feeling that I was starting my history journey and taking charge of wanting to know more about history and those that fought and died for our new country. John Adams will always be my recommendation for those that want to know more about the man and the Revolutionary War.
It is never too late to learn about history and learn about those that came before us. McCullough and Runger both made history fun, knowledgeable, and I came away learning so much! Another favorite listen this year.
I included several books on my TBR that were mentioned that John Adams read which I have not read. I love the idea of reading these and knowing that Adams read the same words so long ago.
Don Quixote
Common Sense
Selected Works
I finished my Arthur book close to on timeThe Unexpected President: The Life and Times of Chester A. Arthur- Scott Greenberger 3 stars
Chester Arthur became president after Garfield was assassinated. His only political experience was running the New York Custom House and raising money for the Republican party. He surprised everyone when as president he came out in favor of civil service reform. The book did a good job of covering Arthur's early life even though he destroyed most of his papers from this time period. I do wish less time had been spent on Julia Sand's letters. She wrote at least 20 letters to Arthur that he kept and he visited her for an hour one time. There was no proof in the book that Arthur ever wrote her back or followed her advice so quoting so much from her letters seemed pointless to me. Overall the book gives a good overview of Arthur's life.
I'm looking forward to Cleveland.
I think Grover Cleveland should be an interesting read.
It occurred to me as I read quite a few books about presidents, there time in the White House, life after the presidency and first ladies, that I should post them here because I'm sure many will be of interest. I just finished Life After Power: Seven Presidents and Their Search for Purpose Beyond the White House and can recommend it.Here is my review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Theresa wrote: "I think Grover Cleveland should be an interesting read."Cleveland was one of the presidents including inLife After Power: Seven Presidents and Their Search for Purpose Beyond the White House. He married a much younger woman when he was in the White House.
Here's a quote from the book:
At the start of the Cleveland administration, America didn’t have a First Lady. Cleveland’s sister Rose stepped up to perform that role. History would later reveal that Rose Cleveland broke a glass ceiling of her own, and that she may have been America’s first gay First Lady. Though she kept her personal life secret, she had a romantic partner later in her life, a wealthy widow named Ms. Evangeline Simpson Whipple, with whom she kept a detailed romantic correspondence.
Cleveland was known to be extremely honest. During his presidency tariffs were an issue as was the gold standard.
Booknblues wrote: "It occurred to me as I read quite a few books about presidents, there time in the White House, life after the presidency and first ladies, that I should post them here because I'm sure many will be..."Quit adding books to my TBR. hahaha
Booknblues wrote: "It occurred to me as I read quite a few books about presidents, there time in the White House, life after the presidency and first ladies, that I should post them here because I'm sure many will be..."I read Untold Power: The Fascinating Rise and Complex Legacy of First Lady Edith Wilson this spring which was so fascinating and then visited the Wilson house in Kalorama as follow up. I highly recommend both (but the house only in cooler temps).
Jason wrote: "Quit adding books to my TBR. hahaha..."Glad to be of service.
The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt - Edmund MorrisPart 1 of a 3-part biography series. This book covers Theodore's childhood up to the assassination of McKinley.
Morris crafts probably my favorite biography. While yes, Theodore is an interesting subject, Morris gives vivid pictures of Theodore, those around him, and Theodore's mind. While Morris tells Theodore's life in near strict chronological order, the writing and telling is not choppy, boring, or repetitive. Instead, it's exciting, deep, and at times, lyrical and beautiful.
Roosevelt also is not the person I had conjured in my mind. So far, he is enigmatic. Likable most of the times, annoying some of the times, and whether you agree or disagree with Theodore's convictions, it is easy to respect him.
I look forward to part two and three of Roosvelt's life.
Done with Cleveland pretty close to on time.A Man of Iron: The Turbulent Life and Improbable Presidency of Grover Cleveland-Troy Senik 3 stars
An interesting and farily short biography of the first person to serve two non consecutive terms as U.S. president. The author does a good job of covering Cleveland's law career and his quick rise from mayor of Buffalo to U.S. president. Cleveland definitely comes accross as stubborn and one not easily changed from his beliefs. I admit I didn't undersatand everything involved in the debate of the gold vs. the silver standard. To date Cleveland is also the only president to get married in the White House and his wife is the only person to have given birth there. I'd reccomend the book if you want to get a good overview of Cleveland's life and the big issues during his terms in office.
I'm waiting for my Harrison book to arrive from the library, hopefully soon.
Theodore Rex - Edmund MorrisThe second books in the Theodore Roosevelt biography trilogy is just as wonderful as the first. Covering the years of Roosevelts Presidency, it is a book filled with action. Roosevelt was busy and with policy and political manuvering. The United States found itself as the world police but not by force. Instead, Theodore Roosevelt a skillful diplomat though not afraid to use the threat of power if needed. My view of Roosevelt is greatly enhanced and altered. Thinking of him as loud, egocentric, and brandishing a big stick, this biography shows the nuances of his character, his intelligence, and, though famous for the line about speaking softly but carrying a big stick, Roosevelts philosophy was more about having to speak softly so you don't have to use the big stick you carry around.
I look forward to the the final book coving the post President years. I can't see Roosvelt as having the ability to be idle or to keep his opinions to himself.
Sounds like a good one! Glad you enjoyed it. I'll keep this one in mind when I get to TR.
Jason wrote: "The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt - Edmund MorrisPart 1 of a 3-part biography series. This book covers Theodore's childhood up to the assassination of McKinley.
Morris ..."
Thanks for this review. I find him fascinating. He’s been in the local news a lot lately. The story about how the Teddy Bear got started, both the myth and reality, was really interesting.
So, would you like to talk to him and ask him questions? If you’re ever near Buffalo you can meet HOLO TED at the TR inauguration site. They just announced that they will remain open during the government shutdown.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site (TR Site) announced Tuesday they now have a hologram of Theodore Roosevelt.
RELATED: New U.S. citizens celebrate at historic ceremony in Buffalo
Nicknamed 'Holo Ted,' the AI-powered display is part of the TR Site’s regular tour and features Theodore Roosevelt reprise Joe Wiegand. Visitors can interact with the hologram and ask questions during their visit. It is also multilingual and includes closed captioning. Visitors are encouraged to notify staff in advance if they wish to use its language accessibility features.
Holo Ted' was developed in partnership with Proto, a company that specializes in holographic communication platforms. It also received funding from the J. Warren Perry and Charles Donald Perry Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo.
The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site is open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday from 11am-5pm. Tours start at 9:30am during weekdays and at 11:30am on weekends. The last tour begins at 3:30pm daily.
To book a tour and buy tickets, visit www.trsite.org/visit/tickets/
Glad you are continuing on with Teddy Roosevelt Jason.I actually finished Benjamin Harrison ahead of schedule.
Benjamin Harrison-Charles Calhoun 3 stars
A short but intersting look into Benjamin Harrison, the president in between Cleveland's two terms. The author is definitely in favor of Harrison's actions such as the tariff and increasing benefits for soldiers who fought in the Civil War. The Celeveland book I read before this stressed how much Cleveland hated these actions so it was interesting to read a different prespective. I would have liked mor einformation on some of the cases Harrison tried, especially after the presidency. For a relaitevly short book the author does a good job of highlighting the main points of Harrisons life.
As a bonus here's Regina's reveiw of this book:
Often, Harrison is merely thought of as a place-holder president between Grover Cleveland’s two terms. However, the grandson of a former president was the first Republican since Lincoln to succeed a Democrat. To some this may not seem noteworthy, as this is an era generally relegated to Republican dominance. Contrary to that opinion, Calhoun asserts that the country and the parties were deeply with a couple of swing states deciding the outcome. I actually now think there is merit to that argument, particularly when you look at how many one-term presidents there are during this era. The fact that Harrison is from one of those swing states, Indiana, helps thrust him into consideration for the highest office.
As is the case with most of the books in the American Presidents Series, the book is a good overview of the man and the times, but because of its brevity it lacks the space to delve into deep analysis. This can be disappointing. I was especially disappointed with the lack of attention to Harrison’s reaction to the coup in Hawaii. I did come to appreciate how earnestly Harrison held to advancing the rights of freed slaves. It was only during this read that I realized how tragic the sacrifice of the Lodge bill for the tariff issue truly was for the country.
Play Book Tag
Books mentioned in this topic
Benjamin Harrison (other topics)The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt (other topics)
Theodore Rex (other topics)
A Man of Iron: The Turbulent Life and Improbable Presidency of Grover Cleveland (other topics)
The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Edmund Morris (other topics)Edmund Morris (other topics)
Edmund Morris (other topics)
Marcus Tillius Cicero (other topics)
Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra (other topics)
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Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President - Candice Millard - 5 Stars
This nonfiction book reads almost like a novel, detailing the shooting and "care" of President James Garfield.
So many interesting details are covered such as Dr. Bliss background and his motivations for not allowing anyone to help in his care for Garfield. Alexander Graham Bell's (yes, that Alexander Graham Bell) involvement as well as the first metal detector. Charles Guiteau insanity while at the same seeming very intelligent.
Wonderful book with a narrow scope so it can incorporate these fascinating events. Stranger than fiction as they say. Definitely on par with the best works of Erik Larson.