social sciences

摘要

Pulitzer Prize-winning author (for The Age of jackson and A Thousand Days) and acclaimed, sometimes controversial historian Arthur Schlesinger Jr. (1917-2007) was a political insider who embodied 20th-century liberalism. He served as a speechwriter for presidential nominee Adlai Stevenson and special adviser to President John F. Kennedy. Aldous's (history, Bard Coll.; Reagan and Thatcher) deeply researched, comprehensive biography delves into Schlesinger's career, personal life, and writings. While not denying his subject's talents, Aldous discusses how Schlesinger's academic path was smoothed by his historian father, Arthur Schlesinger Sr., with whom the son shared an often rocky relationship. Aldous is at his best when investigating the public response to Schlesinger's books. Devastated by the deaths of John and Robert Kennedy, Schlesinger devoted the rest of his life to recording their stories. Aldous effectively captures the optimistic spirit of post-World War II America as viewed through Schlesinger's experiences. VERDICT Entertaining and exhilarating, this book will appeal mostly to historians but also be enjoyed by popular history readers. See also Schlesinger's memoir, A Life in the 20th Century, for more insights into his life.