Book Description
Forty-three Americans have held the job of President of the United States. Each has a story, be it one of vision, accomplishment, conflict, scandal, triumph, or tragedy. And each story is at the center of the national story, a part of what we all experience. History buffs find endless fascination – and a greater understanding of America today – in the colorful personalities and momentous events that surround the Oval Office.

If you want the complete take on U. S. presidents, from George Washington to George W. Bush, you’ll appreciate U. S. Presidents for Dummies. Written in a lively style by a history professor at the University of Texas, this fun guidebook of chief executives is packed with information, factoids, and memorable quotes. Inside, you’ll find out which president: Promised to only serve one term, and kept his word! Was a great person but a rotten president Campaigned on nothing but image – in the n ineteenth century! May be the most underrated president in history Had his own distributor bringing liquor to the White House – during Prohibition! Appointed the first female cabinet member Pushed through the first civil rights legislation after the end of the Civil War Said of himself, “I am a man of limited talents from a small town. I don’t seem to grasp that I am president”

U. S. Presidents for Dummies offers a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to be the leader of the free world, and who has stepped up to the challenge. Dividing the ranks of presidents into chronological groups for a broader, historical understanding of the office, this book discusses: The birth and evolution of the presidency Ineffective presidents Forgettable presidents Working up to the Civil War Reconstruction presidents Becoming a force in the world Instituting the Imperial Presidency Today’s changing dynamics and the Presidency

A treasury of information, this book features an easy-to-comprehend style and sharp historical analysis. Sidebars, photos, timelines, and best and worst lists make U. S. Presidents for Dummies a historical blast to read and a must-have for understanding the state of both yesterday’s and today’s union.


From the Back Cover
Hail to the Chief! Get the lowdown on our nation’s leaders Packed with little-known facts and fascinating stories Get the scoop on America’s leaders from George Washington to George W. Bush Ever wonder how America’s presidents deal with the fame, stress, and criticism that come along with the most powerful position in the world? From their successes to their scandals, from their public personas to their private lives, this friendly guide follows the careers of the 42 men who have held the office – revealing intriguing details about their personalities, lifestyles, and the events that influenced their decisions. The Dummies Way Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear-out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun Get smart! @www.dummies.com Find listings of all our books Create your own personalized book with Hungry Minds a la Carte™ Sign up for daily eTips at www.dummiesdaily.com


About the Author
Marcus Stadelmann is the author of The Dependent Ally: German Foreign Policy 1949—1990 and a contributor to Political Leaders of Contemporary Western Europe.

FROM THE PUBLISHER