Explore the Lives of America's Presidents
Dive into the fascinating biographies of all 45 U.S. Presidents, from the legendary George Washington to the controversial Donald Trump. Each book offers a unique perspective on their lives, challenges, and legacies. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, this list is a treasure trove of insights into the leaders who shaped America.
My 21 Years in the White House
175 pages
Alonzo Fields' account reveals fascinating stories from his two decades of service in the White House.
Upstairs at the White House
536 pages
J.B. West's memoir offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of the First Ladies, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts.
Dreams from My Father
708 pages
It's a compelling exploration of identity and personal history, showcasing Obama's best writing.
Truman
62 pages
McCullough's Truman is a real joy to read, especially for those who want to learn more about the man behind the historic decision to drop the bomb. The audiobook is definitely worth the 53-hour time investment!
The Passage of Power
785 pages
Caro’s books are phenomenal, providing an utterly mesmerizing look at a complex man.
Mornings on Horseback
504 pages
It's a fantastic read that offers a deep dive into the life and times of Teddy Roosevelt.
The Second Most Powerful Man in the World
546 pages
The life of Franklin Roosevelt's most trusted and powerful advisor, Admiral William D. Leahy, Chief of Staff to the Commander-in-Chief “Fascinating… greatly enriches our understanding of Washington wartime power.”—Madeleine Albright Aside from FDR, no American did more to shape World War II than Admiral William D. Leahy--not Douglas MacArthur, not Dwight Eisenhower, and not even the legendary George Marshall. No man, including Harry Hopkins, was closer to Roosevelt, nor had earned his blind faith, like Leahy. Through the course of the war, constantly at the president's side and advising him on daily decisions, Leahy became the second most powerful man in the world. In a time of titanic personalities, Leahy regularly downplayed his influence, preferring the substance of power to the style. A stern-faced, salty sailor, his U.S. Navy career had begun as a cadet aboard a sailing ship. Four decades later, Admiral Leahy was a trusted friend and advisor to the president and his ambassador to Vichy France until the attack on Pearl Harbor. Needing one person who could help him grapple with the enormous strategic consequences of the war both at home and abroad, Roosevelt made Leahy the first presidential chief of staff--though Leahy's role embodied far more power than the position of today. Leahy's profound power was recognized by figures like Stalin and Churchill, yet historians have largely overlooked his role. In this important biography, historian Phillips Payson O'Brien illuminates the admiral's influence on the most crucial and transformative decisions of WWII and the early Cold War. From the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and France, to the allocation of resources to fight Japan, O'Brien contends that America's war largely unfolded according to Leahy's vision. Among the author's surprising revelations is that while FDR's health failed, Leahy became almost a de facto president, making decisions while FDR was too ill to work, and that much of his influence carried over to Truman's White House.
