Just finished the third part of Robert Caro's biography of Lyndon Johnson. Once again I am amazed at this complex individual who reaches the prize of the presidency only through the assassination of JFK. Lyndon Johnson is someone who has tremendous capacity for good yet at the same time is not a person you would like. He is flawed yet has transformed America through the passage of key legislation for minorities. He shows singular focus to meet long-term goals, a dedication to his own success and the success of his ideals. Yet, he is petty, vain, and moody. Someone who craves attention and power, yet also fears failure. Still, when he is called upon to lead there was no equal. Caro again provides a rich portrait of a man of power who is only human.
Reading this great writer is always worth the time as he provides rich details on how power is exploited, as well as won and lost in Washington. No one writes better about the ups and down of those who are political power players.
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