Means of Ascent

Name: Means of Ascent
Brand: Vintage Publishing
SKU: 9781847926142
Price: 65.0 NZD
Availability: OutOfStock

The Years of Lyndon Johnson (Volume 2)

By Robert A Caro

4.26

( 26,035 ratings, 943 reviews)

Summary

Means of Ascent by Robert A. Caro is a riveting account that delves into the early political career of Lyndon B. Johnson. The book explores his ambitious rise through cunning and sometimes controversial means, providing a deep insight into his relentless drive for power.
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Format: Paperback / softback

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you enjoy meticulously researched biographies that delve into the complexities of political power and ambition, offering an in-depth portrait of a controversial yet pivotal historical figure.

Means of Ascent

Caro’s legendary, multi-award-winning biography of US President Lyndon Johnson is a uniquely riveting and revelatory account of power, political genius and the shaping of twentieth-century America.

In this second instalment we witness a momentous turning point in American politics: the tragic last stand of the old politics versus the new.

Reissued as a Bodley Head trade paperback, the second instalment of 'the greatest biography of our era' The Times

Description

Means of Ascent by Robert A. Caro continues the epic, multi-award-winning biography series of Lyndon B. Johnson, one of the most complex and influential figures in American political history. As the second volume in Caro's masterful exploration, it delves deeply into Johnson’s early career, revealing the intricate and turbulent journey that would ultimately position him as a dominant force in twentieth-century America.

In this riveting instalment, Caro meticulously chronicles the pivotal period following Johnson's service during the Second World War. This era, marked by a clash between the entrenched old political guard and the emergent new order, serves as the backdrop for Johnson’s relentless and sometimes controversial rise to power. Through detailed narrative and profound insight, Caro dissects the myths and realities surrounding Johnson's accumulation of wealth and influence, shedding light on the often obscure and concealed aspects of his life.

The book's core reveals the gripping and highly contentious 1948 senatorial election, a turning point not only for Johnson but for American politics as a whole. This election, ultimately decided by the infamous '87 votes that changed history,' becomes an explosive and pivotal moment in the biography. Caro’s investigation into this event unveils shocking truths and intricacies, presenting a nuanced portrait of Johnson’s tactical genius and unyielding ambition.

Reissued as a Bodley Head trade paperback, Means of Ascent is celebrated as ‘the greatest biography of our era’ by The Times. It stands as essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of power and politics. This volume is not only a compelling narrative but also a critical analysis of the forces that shaped modern American governance, making it a must-read for historians, political scientists, and anyone captivated by the intricacies of political life.

With its rich detail and insightful revelations, Means of Ascent continues to cement Robert A. Caro’s reputation as a legendary biographer, offering readers a uniquely profound and engaging account of a man whose impact on American history cannot be overstated.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Means of Ascent by Robert A Caro is praised for being an exceptional biography, essential for understanding power and politics. It is described as monumental and sets a high standard for future political biographies. Reviews highlight its thrilling and dramatic narrative, making it a riveting read, comparable to a Hollywood thriller. The book is noted for its detailed and vivid portrayal of both Lyndon Johnson's character and America in the 1940s, with a brilliant depiction of Texas.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781847926142

Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 July 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: The Bodley Head Ltd

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 40.0mm

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 718g

Pages: 544

Collections

American & Canadian History Biography & Memoir Education & Reference History & Military Non-Fiction Political Biographies Politics & Current Affairs Robert A Caro Tim's Books

About the Author

Robert A. Caro has been described as 'the greatest political biographer of our times' (Sunday Times) and 'the most revered historian of his generation' (New York Times). His first book, The Power Broker, published in 1974, was described in 2015 as 'one of the greatest non-fiction works ever written' (Sunday Times) and his ongoing multi-volume work The Years of Lyndon Johnson has been described as 'the greatest biography of our era' (The Times). With these books he has twice won the Pulitzer Prize, twice won the National Book Award and three times won the National Book Critics Circle Award. He has also been awarded virtually every other major literary honour, including the National Humanities Medal, awarded by President Barack Obama, the highest award in the humanities given in the United States. Born in 1935, he graduated from Princeton University, later became a Nieman Fellow at Harvard University, and was an investigative reporter for Newsday for six years. He lives with his wife, the writer Ina Caro, in New York City, where he is at work on the fifth and final volume of The Years of Lyndon Johnson.