First published 2014
William McKinley emerges from historical obscurity in this reassessment by bestselling historian Kevin Phillips. Phillips contends that McKinley ranks among America's most significant presidents by objective measures. Under McKinley's leadership, the United States established itself as a global diplomatic and military force. He joined the ranks of only eight presidents who served as key figures in victorious wars, whether from the White House or battlefield. His presidency coincided with a fundamental realignment of American party politics, placing him among six or seven leaders who presided over such transformations. Phillips traces how McKinley initiated each Republican cycle of power and challenges the conventional wisdom that has diminished his reputation. Critics have focused on his personality flaws, indirect leadership style, middle-class background, and failure to inspire public enthusiasm. Phillips marshals evidence that McKinley's commitment to national healing, economic recovery, and reunification merits his elevation among America's finest chief executives.
Genres: biography, history, 20th-century, american, 19th-century, american-history
Vibes: intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: historical-biography
Setting: United States
Period: 19th Century, 20th Century
208 pages · ebook · Times Books