This chapter examines the intricacies of writing presidential biographies, with a focus on the evolving perceptions of figures like Jimmy Carter. It discusses the impact of congressional dynamics on a president's success and contrasts various foreign policy approaches. Additionally, it reflects on the personal connections biographers forge with their subjects and the stories behind notable presidents not included in the narrative.
Here are the podcast show notes with all the chapters included:
A Note from James:
"Sometimes, if you just read the news, it doesn’t always seem like it, but being President of the United States is the highest calling. You have responsibility over the entire economy, the lives of millions, and the direction of the country in war and peace. I’m excited to talk to David Rubenstein today—he’s the head of the Carlyle Group, a $500 billion private equity firm. He also worked for Jimmy Carter, has had presidents work for him, and just published a book called The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency, where he talks to historians about U.S. Presidents, from George Washington to Nixon and beyond. It’s filled with fascinating insights. Let’s get started."
Episode Description:
In this episode, James interviews David Rubenstein about his latest book, The Highest Calling, which dives into the complexities of American presidents through interviews with historians and Rubenstein's own reflections. Rubenstein shares what he’s learned from years of interacting with former presidents, how public opinions on U.S. presidents change over time, and what makes the presidency such a unique role. They also touch on the challenges and achievements of figures like Jimmy Carter, Abraham Lincoln, and Dwight Eisenhower, offering listeners new ways to think about the men who have led the country.
What You’ll Learn:
- The evolving reputations of U.S. Presidents and how history changes its mind on who was successful.
- Insights into Jimmy Carter’s presidency and why he is gaining new respect over time.
- The unique challenges that presidents face in foreign policy, with examples from Carter and Eisenhower.
- How third-party candidates can impact U.S. presidential elections, and what history tells us about that.
- Surprising facts about lesser-known presidents and the personal relationships that shaped their leadership.
Chapters:
- 01:30 – The Weight of the Presidency: Why it's the highest calling in America.
- 02:09 – Introduction of David Rubenstein and his work with U.S. Presidents.
- 03:01 – Rubenstein’s New Book: The Highest Calling and why it stands out.
- 03:19 – Changing Opinions: How history re-evaluates past presidents.
- 05:12 – Jimmy Carter’s Presidency: Achievements and controversies.
- 08:37 – Foreign Policy and Perception: How leaders are judged at home and abroad.
- 10:21 – Carter's Unique Strategy in 1976: His rise to the presidency.
- 12:38 – Foreign Policy in the Middle East and the Iran Hostage Crisis.
- 14:03 – Stories Left Out: Surprising anecdotes from U.S. history, like Teddy Roosevelt’s Amazon expedition.
- 21:54 – Coolidge’s Forgotten Legacy: Why he is an underrated president.
- 23:02 – Hoover’s Response to the Great Depression: Was it Coolidge’s fault?
- 25:21 – Eisenhower’s Quiet Success: How peace and prosperity defined his presidency.
- 29:01 – Military Presidents and Their Reluctance to Use Force: Why they preferred diplomacy.
- 32:17 – The President's Club: Why it no longer exists and the political divide today.
- 33:50 – The Role of Fundraising in Political Polarization.
- 36:46 – The Costs of Running a Presidential Campaign: Why it’s so expensive.
- 38:13 – Lincoln’s Path to the Presidency: How he stood out in a crowded race.
- 39:49 – The Electoral College Debate: Should it still exist?
- 42:18 – Third-Party Candidates and Their Impact on Elections.
- 44:06 – Overrated and Underrated Presidents: How Kennedy and Eisenhower are viewed today.
- 49:09 – Nixon’s Fall from Grace: How his tapes ruined his presidency.
- 50:12 – Nixon’s Post-Presidency and Redemption.
- 54:45 – Presidential Debates: How one-liners and debate prep can make or break a candidate.
- 57:40 – The Influence of Speechwriters: Ted Sorensen’s role in Kennedy’s speeches.
- 01:00:04 – Entering Politics: David Rubenstein’s inspiration from Ted Sorensen.
- 01:01:21 – What Presidents Should Know About the Economy.
- 01:03:16 – Unrealized Gains and Tax Proposals: Do candidates really understand the economy?
Additional Resources:
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