First published 2017
Robert Francis Kennedy stands in his father's shadow and behind his war hero brother Jack. When offered a naval commission like his sibling, Bobby chooses to serve as an ordinary sailor instead. This decision transforms him. The experience connects him to Americans across every divide of age, race, and class. These same people will rally to his cause during his 1968 presidential campaign. Bobby emerges as a rare political figure who combines practical skills with genuine idealism. He can both accomplish difficult tasks and inspire millions of followers. Matthews traces Bobby's journey from his early years through his work as attorney general in his brother's White House to his final campaign for president. The author draws on extensive research and interviews to reveal both Bobby's public achievements and private struggles. This portrait shows how the perpetual underdog became one of America's most compelling twentieth century leaders.
Genres: biography, 20th-century, political-science, american-history
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, underdog
Setting: United States
Period: 20th Century
416 pages · Hardcover · Simon & Schuster