Democrats "Stewing" Over Senators Defecting To End Showdown; Newsom Scolds Them For "Rolling Over"

This book by David Halberstam examines the decisions that led to the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War, particularly highlighting the roles of academics and intellectuals in President John F. Kennedy's administration. It delves into the lives and policies of key figures such as Robert McNamara, McGeorge Bundy, and Dean Rusk, and critiques the 'whiz kids' who implemented policies that often defied common sense. The book covers the period from 1960 to 1965 and beyond, providing a detailed account of the strategic blunders and moral crises that characterized the U.S. involvement in Vietnam.

The Johnstown Flood by David McCullough tells the story of the catastrophic failure of the South Fork Dam in 1889, which resulted in over 2,000 deaths and widespread destruction in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The book explores the social and historical context leading up to the disaster, highlighting themes of complacency and human error. It is a classic portrayal of life in late 19th-century America, offering powerful historical lessons.