跳过导航
When the Center Held
Book

When the Center Held

Gerald Ford and the Rescue of the American Presidency

Free Press, 2018 更多详情


Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Concrete Examples
  • Engaging
  • Insider's Take

Recommendation

In the wake of President Richard Nixon’s resignation, the United States needed someone to unite and help heal the country. Gerald R. Ford was that leader. Donald Rumsfeld draws on notes and memoranda from his time in the administration as chairman of the presidential transition team, White House chief of staff and secretary of defense to relay how Jerry Ford brought balance to the country. Rumsfeld, an engaging writer, describes the challenges, context and successes of Ford’s 1974-1977 presidency while detailing his own role. Rumsfeld’s commentary can seem like Monday-morning quarterbacking, but overall, his approach proves insightful and well-informed. Short chapters make for a well-paced read. This book is a tribute, because this Ford has few warts. But it will be of note to those who enjoy inside looks at presidencies, to anyone interested in the Republican Party’s evolving identity, and to those seeking inspiration about surviving today’s highly charged political climate.

Take-Aways

  • Gerald R. Ford was in public service his whole life.  
  • As president, he took on the important role of helping the nation heal.
  • After taking office, Ford pardoned President Nixon and named Nelson Rockefeller as his vice president.

About the Author

Former congressman Donald Rumsfeld was twice US secretary of defense, US ambassador to NATO, envoy to the Middle East and White House chief of staff.


Comment on this summary or 开始讨论

More on this topic

Learners who read this summary also read

Related Channels