First published 2001
America emerges from World War I determined never again to entangle itself in foreign conflicts. Roosevelt inherits a nation that has signed feel-good disarmament treaties while refusing to join any organization that might enforce them. The president watches potential enemies build their militaries as Congress slashes defense spending. Roosevelt knows war may be inevitable, but isolationists and pacifists control public opinion. He must choose between honesty and political survival as he tries to prepare America for the coming storm. His secretary of state Cordell Hull proves more prescient than most advisors, particularly in crafting the Good Neighbor policy toward Latin America. Roosevelt's evasive explanations frustrate allies and enemies alike, but direct action could destroy his domestic agenda. The contrast between bold New Deal reforms at home and timid half-measures abroad defines his presidency during these crucial years.
Genres: history, international-relations, 20th-century, political-science, world-war-ii, world-war-i, american-history
Vibes: suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, political-intrigue
Setting: America, Latin America, United States
Period: 1918-1941, Interwar Period
240 pages · Hardcover · Praeger