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Our Presidents and how we make them
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More by Alexander K. (Alexander Kelly) McClure
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A clearer way to understand Our Presidents and how we make them through themes, characters, and key ideas
This reading guide highlights what stands out in Our Presidents and how we make them through 4 core themes, 3 character profiles, and 4 chapter-level ideas. It is meant to help readers decide whether the book fits their taste and deepen the reading once they begin.
About this book
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What the book is doing
Alexander K. McClure's "Our Presidents and how we make them" is a late 19th-century historical exposition offering a meticulous examination of U.S. presidential elections from George Washington onward. The work delves beyond mere election results, exploring the intricate historical contexts, significant political contests, and evolving dynamics that have shaped the selection of America's leaders. McClure, drawing from his extensive personal involvement in American politics, provides a unique perspective on the struggles between parties and candidates across various election cycles. The book serves as a substantive exploration of the presidency's unique role within American politics, promising readers insights into both widely known and lesser-documented aspects of how the nation's highest office has been contested and filled.
Key Themes
The Evolution of American Democracy
This theme explores how the democratic process in the U.S., particularly concerning presidential elections, has changed over time. McClure details the shifts in voter participation, the mechanics of campaigning, the role of the Electoral College, and the expansion of suffrage, illustrating a dynamic and often messy progression towards a more inclusive, albeit still imperfect, democracy.
The Nature of Leadership and Presidential Character
McClure delves into the qualities, strengths, and weaknesses of the individuals who have held or sought the presidency. He examines how personal character, integrity, political acumen, and public perception influence a candidate's viability and a president's effectiveness. The book implicitly questions what makes an ideal leader for a complex and diverse nation.
“The story of how we make our Presidents is, in large measure, the story of American political evolution itself.”
How does McClure's late 19th-century perspective influence his portrayal of earlier presidential elections and the evolving role of the presidency?
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