Description
Book SynopsisFrom the glitz of inaugural balls to the pomp and circumstance of the State of the Union address, the American presidency is rife with symbolism and ceremony. This book examines how the first five presidents - with special emphasis on George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe - invented the American political culture.
Trade ReviewIntriguing and revelatory. A wonderful book. Much of Moats's story is familiar, but her telling of it and her analytical framework bring a fresh perspective on national politics and especially the supposed "Era of Good Feelings."
-- Michael A. Morrison, Purdue University
A well-written study of an important and inherently interesting topic. Very interesting... breaks new ground.
-- Simon Newman, University of Glasgow
Table of ContentsTable of Contents
Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction—\u201cUntrodden Ground\u201d: Presidential Ceremony and Popular Sovereignty
Chapter I—\u201cCeremonies, Endless Ceremonies\u201d: The People and Congress Inaugurate a President
Chapter II—\u201cTo Preserve the Dignity and Respect\u201d: WashingtonÆs Republican Approach to Presidential Ceremony
Chapter III—\u201cWe Deal in Ink Only\u201d: JeffersonÆs Rhetorical Opposition to Federalist Ceremony
Chapter IV—Desperately Seeking \u201cGood Feelings\u201d: MonroeÆs Northern Tour of 1817
Chapter V—\u201cThe Success and Stability of our Republican Institutions\u201d: MonroeÆs Southern Tour of 1819
Conclusion—Celebrations, Parties, and Antebellum Politics
Notes
Bibliography
Index
