A brilliant, evenhanded, and timely political history.
Lincoln's political philosophy in sharp relief.
Princeton University distinguished research scholar Guelzo, a three-time winner of the Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize, presents a detailed analysis of the 16th president's conception of and reverence for democracy as the pinnacle of political aspiration and accomplishment, what Lincoln called "my ancient faith." As the author adroitly points out, Lincoln often used terms such as democracy, representative democracy, and constitutional republic interchangeably; he only explicitly defined what democracy was not, which was slavery. For the self-made Lincoln, democracy required consent. Guelzo uses his vast knowledge of Lincoln's speeches, state papers, and letters to more fully interpret Lincolnian democracy, particularly regarding the principle of the sovereignty of the people and reverence for prudent laws faithfully observed. He is particularly enlightening concerning the evolution of Lincoln's political and economic philosophy, notably the influence of Whig politician Henry Clay, philosopher John Stuart Mill, and political economist Henry Carey; democracy’s role in racial issues and emancipation; and the cultural mores that support democracy—in Lincoln’s view, property ownership, religious morality, toleration, and electioneering. Guelzo also contrasts Lincoln's views about Jacksonian democracy and the Constitution's protections against insurrection with that of his hand-wringing predecessor, James Buchanan, who “was so loath to reach for anything that looked like ‘necessity’ in dealing with secession that he convinced himself that the Constitution literally prevented him from acting against secession.” The author offers a balanced discussion of Lincoln's expansion of government and abridgement of civil liberties during the war, and considers whether federalism suffered or was enhanced by Lincoln’s administration. The epilogue, “What If Lincoln Had Lived?” illuminates Lincoln's views as the American body politic continues to wrestle with the meaning of democracy, which “is still the best method for people to live lives free from domination and exploitation.”
A brilliant, evenhanded, and timely political history.Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024
ISBN: 9780593534441
Page Count: 272
Publisher: Knopf
Review Posted Online: Sept. 20, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 15, 2023
A slick, vacuous glimpse into the former first lady’s White House years.
A carefully curated personal portrait.
First ladies’ roles have evolved significantly in recent decades. Their memoirs typically reflect a spectrum of ambition and interests, offering insights into their values and personal lives. Melania Trump, however, stands out as exceptionally private and elusive. Her ultra-lean account attempts to shed light on her public duties, initiatives, and causes as first lady, and it defends certain actions like her controversial “I REALLY DON’T CARE, DO U?” jacket. The statement was directed at the media, not the border situation, she claims. Yet the book provides scant detail about her personal orbit or day-to-day interactions. The memoir opens with her well-known Slovenian origin story, successful modeling career, and whirlwind romance with Donald Trump, culminating in their 2005 marriage, followed by a snapshot of Election Day 2016: “Each time we were together that day, I was impressed by his calm.…This man is remarkably confident under pressure.” Once in the White House, Melania Trump describes her functions and numerous public events at home and abroad, which she asserts were more accomplished than media representations suggested. However, she rarely shares any personal interactions beyond close family ties, notably her affection for her son, Barron, and her sister, Ines. And of course she lavishes praise on her husband. Minimal anecdotes about White House or cabinet staff are included, and she carefully defuses her rumored tensions with Trump’s adult children, blandly stating, “While we may share the same last name, each of us is distinct with our own aspirations and paths to follow.” Although Melania’s desire to support causes related to children’s and women’s welfare feels authentic, the overall tenor of her memoir seems aimed at painting a glimmering portrait of her husband and her role, likely with an eye toward the forthcoming election.
A slick, vacuous glimpse into the former first lady’s White House years.Pub Date: Oct. 8, 2024
ISBN: 9781510782693
Page Count: 256
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing
Review Posted Online: Oct. 14, 2024
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2024
PERSPECTIVES
An engrossing and ominous chronicle, told by a master of the form.
Documenting perilous times.
In his most recent behind-the-scenes account of political power and how it is wielded, Woodward synthesizes several narrative strands, from the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection and Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel to the 2024 presidential campaign. Woodward’s clear, gripping storytelling benefits from his legendary access to prominent figures and a structure of propulsive chapters. The run-up to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is tense (if occasionally repetitive), as a cast of geopolitical insiders try to divine Vladimir Putin’s intent: “Doubt among allies, the public and among Ukrainians meant valuable time and space for Putin to maneuver.” Against this backdrop, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham implores Donald Trump to run again, notwithstanding the former president’s denial of his 2020 defeat. This provides unwelcome distraction for President Biden, portrayed as a thoughtful, compassionate lifetime politico who could not outrace time, as demonstrated in the June 2024 debate. Throughout, Trump’s prevarications and his supporters’ cynicism provide an unsettling counterpoint to warnings provided by everyone from former Joint Chief of Staff Mark Milley to Vice President Kamala Harris, who calls a second Trump term a likely “death knell for American democracy.” The author’s ambitious scope shows him at the top of his capabilities. He concludes with these unsettling words: “Based on my reporting, Trump’s language and conduct has at times presented risks to national security—both during his presidency and afterward.”
An engrossing and ominous chronicle, told by a master of the form.Pub Date: Oct. 15, 2024
ISBN: 9781668052273
Page Count: 448
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: Oct. 15, 2024
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2024
IN THE NEWS
PERSPECTIVES
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