Description
Book SynopsisDaniel J Flood was among the last of the oldtime movers and shakers on Capitol Hill. Based on declassified FBI documents, court records, public papers, and contemporary newspaper accounts, as well as more than thirty interviews of Flood's widow, this title explodes the myths surrounding Pennsylvania's controversial - and colorful - congressman.
Trade Review“Dan Flood ranks among Pennsylvania’s leading twentieth-century public servants. A remarkable legislator and orator who had the unusual qualities of empathy and compassion for the struggling, Flood was deeply committed to the Eleventh Congressional District as well as to national Great Society policies, such as Medicare and Appalachian economic development. William Kashatus has done justice to Flood and his legacy. This biography is a must-read for those interested in politics, public policy, and history.”
—Kenneth C. Wolensky,Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
“Bill Kashatus has written the first comprehensive biography of Dan Flood, northeastern Pennsylvania’s colorful and legendary congressman. This fascinating book sheds light on a vanished era in Congress—when the nation’s business was done under the cover of darkness by those with seniority who knew the system and used it to their own ends.”
—Joseph Rish,King’s College
“Bill Kashatus’s account has all but made Dan Flood return to life. He chronicles the strengths and weaknesses of one of our nation’s most colorful—and powerful—congressmen. It is a fascinating story that should be read by those who wish to enrich their knowledge of our political system. As one who interacted frequently with Dan Flood, I can recommend Kashatus’s biography. His judgments on Flood are not always favorable, but they are always balanced and fair.”
—Frank C. Carlucci,former U.S. Secretary of Defense
“Kashatus goes into government programs in detail that sometimes teeters on the edge of mind-boggling. But that reporting underscores the book's major subtext: a succinct history of American government in domestic and international programs from midway in World War II until 1980. . . . Kashatus has done a very thorough scholar’s job—with patience, enthusiasm, and zeal. . . . Grant Kashatus his sentimental license. You won't be sorry if you read his book.”
—Michael Pakenham Philadelphia Inquirer
Table of ContentsContents
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Preface
1. Anthracite Origins
2. Early Career
3. Trumping the Fine Machine
4. The Fight to Save Anthracite
5. Education of a Cold Warrior
6. Pork-Barreling the Great Society
7. Reconsidering Vietnam
8. Elko’s Payoff
9. One Flood Against Another
10. Panama’s Public Enemy No. 1
11. Federal Investigation
12. Trial and Tribulation
Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index
