Description
Book SynopsisWhat makes a great president? Certainly leadership, accomplishments, crisis management, political skill, character, and integrity are part of the equation, but the great presidents have something more. They not only govern well, but are part of something lasting; their presidencies influence the thoughts and beliefs of generations. These powerful men are not flawless leaders, they have made mistakes and miscalculations, but in the end their decisions have changed the nation and often the world. In Destiny's Consul: America's Greatest Presidents, presidential scholar Michael P. Riccards provides a concise introduction to the lives, presidencies, and personal qualities of ten great individuals whom Riccards argues are our greatest presidents. Organized chronologically, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Ronald Reagan are shown to truly be great. It will be of
Trade ReviewThe ten greatest American presidents presented by Michael Riccards in Destiny’s Consul all share the common traits of leadership that one would expect. More importantly, each was able to embrace and identify with national passions that outlasted their presidencies. While one may quibble over the selection of one or two of these men, Riccards provides case studies of their accomplishments that justify and fortify his position. Students of the presidency and observers of American politics will learn from and enjoy reading Riccards accounts of the individual administration of each. -- Joseph R. Marbach, La Salle University
Presidential greatness is impossible to quantify, but most Americans believe they know it when they see it—if only, in some cases, in retrospect. Having immersed himself in presidential studies for many years, the author offers this ‘ten best’ account. . . . Demonstrating an admirable familiarity with pertinent secondary literature, Riccards provides breezy narratives on each of his top ten. . . . This book will best serve as a handy reference for anyone interested in knowing more about ten of the best men who held the nation's highest office. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers/public libraries. * CHOICE *
America has been fortunate to have had some dynamic presidents, and also fortunate to have the accomplished scholar Michael Riccards delve into the qualities that made these men outstanding chief executives. Destiny's Consul is not just riveting political history, it also provides lessons in leadership. -- Marc Mappen, Rutgers University
Far more than a collection of biographies, Destiny’s Consul provides insight into how ten U.S. presidents shaped the character of our nation. Once again, Michael P. Riccards demonstrates why he has long been highly regarded as a presidential scholar. -- Richard A. Lee, St. Bonaventure University
Table of ContentsPreface: How Presidents Become Great Chapter 1: George Washington: Creating a Nation in War and then in Peace Chapter 2: Thomas Jefferson: Establishing Popular Rule Chapter 3: Andrew Jackson: The President as a Tribune of the People Chapter 4: James K. Polk: The Arts of Waging Conflict Chapter 5: Abraham Lincoln: The Commander in Chief Goes to War Chapter 6: Theodore Roosevelt: The Dynamics of Domestic Reform Chapter 7: Woodrow Wilson: The Progressive Agenda at Home and across the World Chapter 8: Franklin D. Roosevelt: The Establishment of the Modern Presidency Chapter 9: Harry S Truman: The First Imperial President Chapter 10: Ronald Reagan: Unleashing Right Wing America Conclusion Notes
