Ferling (history, emeritus, Univ. of West Georgia; Almost a Miracle) attempts to shed new light on the myth that George Washington was above partisan politics, instead showing that Washington was not only very partisan but probably one of America's best politicians. In fact, Ferling argues, he was so skilled at portraying himself as the impartial "father of the country" that most historians have overlooked his political savvy. Ferling seeks to remedy the situation with this "political biography." He traces Washington's evolution from a self-serving and insecure young man driven by a quest for recognition and wealth into a seasoned political veteran who could maneuver, cajole, and cut backroom deals as adroitly as any modern politician. One example is his handling of the Hamilton-Jefferson battles over the country's economic structure. Although Washington showed sympathy toward both sides and urged conciliation, it becomes clear by studying his behavior and writings at the time that he supported Hamilton's vision of a strong central government. Ferling has done his research and offers some new insights, but ultimately most of the history he presents is familiar. Recommended for readers interested in taking a fresh look at Washington's political life.
—Robert Flatley
Even compared to his fellow founders, George Washington stands tall. Our first president has long been considered a stoic hero, holding himself above the rough-and-tumble politics of his day. Now John Ferling peers behind that image, carefully burnished by Washington himself, to show us a leader who was not only not above politics but a canny infighter-a master of persuasion, manipulation, and deniability.
In the War of Independence, Washington used his skills to steer the Continental Army through crises that would have broken less determined men; he squeezed out rival generals and defused dissent from those below him. Ending the war as a national hero, Washington "allowed" himself to be pressed into the presidency, guiding the nation with the same brilliantly maintained pose of selfless public interest. In short, Washington deftly screened a burning ambition behind his image of republican virtue-but that image, maintained not without cost, made him just the leader the overmatched army, and then the shaky young nation, desperately needed.
Ferling argues that not only was Washington one of America's most adroit politicians-the proof of his genius is that he is no longer thought of as a politician at all.
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In the War of Independence, Washington used his skills to steer the Continental Army through crises that would have broken less determined men; he squeezed out rival generals and defused dissent from those below him. Ending the war as a national hero, Washington "allowed" himself to be pressed into the presidency, guiding the nation with the same brilliantly maintained pose of selfless public interest. In short, Washington deftly screened a burning ambition behind his image of republican virtue-but that image, maintained not without cost, made him just the leader the overmatched army, and then the shaky young nation, desperately needed.
Ferling argues that not only was Washington one of America's most adroit politicians-the proof of his genius is that he is no longer thought of as a politician at all.
The Ascent of George Washington: The Hidden Political Genius of an American Icon
Even compared to his fellow founders, George Washington stands tall. Our first president has long been considered a stoic hero, holding himself above the rough-and-tumble politics of his day. Now John Ferling peers behind that image, carefully burnished by Washington himself, to show us a leader who was not only not above politics but a canny infighter-a master of persuasion, manipulation, and deniability.
In the War of Independence, Washington used his skills to steer the Continental Army through crises that would have broken less determined men; he squeezed out rival generals and defused dissent from those below him. Ending the war as a national hero, Washington "allowed" himself to be pressed into the presidency, guiding the nation with the same brilliantly maintained pose of selfless public interest. In short, Washington deftly screened a burning ambition behind his image of republican virtue-but that image, maintained not without cost, made him just the leader the overmatched army, and then the shaky young nation, desperately needed.
Ferling argues that not only was Washington one of America's most adroit politicians-the proof of his genius is that he is no longer thought of as a politician at all.
In the War of Independence, Washington used his skills to steer the Continental Army through crises that would have broken less determined men; he squeezed out rival generals and defused dissent from those below him. Ending the war as a national hero, Washington "allowed" himself to be pressed into the presidency, guiding the nation with the same brilliantly maintained pose of selfless public interest. In short, Washington deftly screened a burning ambition behind his image of republican virtue-but that image, maintained not without cost, made him just the leader the overmatched army, and then the shaky young nation, desperately needed.
Ferling argues that not only was Washington one of America's most adroit politicians-the proof of his genius is that he is no longer thought of as a politician at all.
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Product Details
| BN ID: | 2940170745630 |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Tantor Audio |
| Publication date: | 06/08/2009 |
| Edition description: | Unabridged |
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