Books Like...
'A Country of Vast Designs: James K. Polk, the Mexican War and the Conquest of the American Continent' by Robert W. Merry is a nonfiction book that delves into the presidency of James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States. The book provides a comprehensive study of the politics and events of the 1840s, focusing on Polk's achievements such as the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Territory Treaty, and the Mexican American War. Written in an informative and engaging style, the book explores Polk's challenges and successes during his presidency, shedding light on his determination to achieve his goals despite facing various obstacles.
Merry's narrative of Polk's presidency is described as well-written, easy-going, and informative. The author presents a neutral and unbiased portrayal of Polk, highlighting his successes and faults in obtaining treaties, lowering tariffs, and handling the Mexican threat. Through detailed accounts of historical events and key figures of the era, Merry provides readers with a compelling insight into the complexities of American history during the 19th century, making this book a recommended read for those interested in understanding the political landscape of the time.
If you liked A Country of Vast Designs, here are the top 37 books to read next:
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Save:'Coolidge' by Amity Shlaes is a detailed biography of the 30th President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge. The book delves into Coolidge's reserved personality, his determination to maintain fiscal responsibility, and his efforts to restore trust in government after the Teapot Dome affair. It explores his presidency, his principles of individual responsibility and character, and his strong belief in the importance of assimilation for immigrants.
To no one had this ever seemed clearer than to a sixty-one-year-old farmer named Oliver Coolidge who languished in Woodstock Common Jail in Windsor County, Vermont, in the spring of 1849. Coolidge was... - #2
Save:'His Excellency: George Washington' by Joseph J. Ellis is a concise biography that offers a portrait of George Washington, focusing on his character and personal life rather than just historical events. Ellis strikes a fine balance between biographical narrative and historical background, making Washington come alive through his military career and political rise to power. The author's writing style is easy and flowing, almost conversational, which helps in engaging the reader with Washington's life.
HISTORY FIRST noticed George Washington in 1753, as a daring and resourceful twenty-one-year-old messenger sent on a dangerous mission into the American wilderness. He carried a letter from the govern... - #3
Save:'John Adams: A Life' by John Ferling is a thorough biography that delves into the life of John Adams, portraying him as both a man and a politician with a balance that sets it apart from other biographical works. The book explores Adams' relationships with key Revolutionary personalities, his contributions to the nation's origins, and his unique partnership with his wife, Abigail. Ferling skillfully weaves together original passages from Adams' writings, providing a detailed account of Adams' public life and personal struggles.
Ferling's writing style is praised for its ability to engage readers by creating interest, curiosity, and a desire to learn more about John Adams. The book is noted for its strong flow, smooth transitions, and well-structured paragraphs that keep the reader captivated. Ferling's use of Adams' diaries and letters adds depth to the portrayal of Adams, showcasing his multifaceted personality and shedding light on his complex relationships with his contemporaries.
'Hoover: An Extraordinary Life in Extraordinary Times' by Kenneth Whyte delves into the life of Herbert Hoover, portraying him as a brilliant man with a complex personality. It explores Hoover's journey from being an orphan to a self-made millionaire in geology and mining engineering, highlighting his philanthropic deeds during World War I and his role as a food czar during wartime. The narrative showcases Hoover's accomplishments outside of his presidency, shedding light on his humanitarian efforts and engineering innovations. also delves into Hoover's shortcomings as a politician, particularly during the Great Depression, and the author's defense of his actions amidst historical criticisms.
West Branch lay in the barely settled reaches of eastern Iowa at the intersection of two dirt roads. Downey Street, running north and south, was a crooked, rutted cart path that served as the main app...- #5
Save:"Richard Nixon: The Life" by John A. Farrell provides a comprehensive single-volume biography of the former President Richard Nixon. The author delves into Nixon's upbringing, exploring the influence of his Quaker mother and rogue father on his character. is praised for its thorough research, presenting a balanced view of Nixon's life and presidency, highlighting both his positive contributions and near-fatal flaws. The narrative covers Nixon's political career, from his early days in politics to the events leading up to his downfall, including the infamous Watergate scandal. Farrell's writing style is described as matter-of-fact yet engaging, offering insights into Nixon's complex personality and the historical context of his era.
THE UNITED STATES had throttled its foes with steel. Now it was time to stand down and go home. Navy lieutenant John Renneburg was stationed at the Glenn L. Martin Company aeronautics complex near Bal... - #6
Save:'41: A Portrait of My Father' by George W. Bush is a heartfelt tribute from a son to his father, former President George H.W. Bush. The book delves into the accomplishments and personal stories of the senior Bush, highlighting his intelligence, kindness, and remarkable life both in and out of politics. Through a conversational writing style, George W. Bush shares lessons learned from his father and offers insights into the life of a truly decent and respected man.
About eighteen months earlier, Jean had called to review the funeral arrangements for my father. He had spent nearly a month in the hospital with pneumonia, and many feared that this good man was head... "Washingon: The Indispensable Man" by James Thomas Flexner is a comprehensive biography based on the author's four-volume set. The book covers the main points of George Washington's life, offering a detailed look at his character, achievements, and impact on American history. Flexner's writing style, while informative, is noted to be somewhat formal and lacking in casualness, making it a more challenging read for some. However, the book is praised for providing a thorough account of Washington's life, including insights into his thoughts, actions, and relationships with other historical figures.
No American is more completely misunderstood than George Washington. He is generally believed to have been, by birth and training, a rich, conservative, British-oriented Virginia aristocrat. As a matt..."An Unfinished Life: John F. Kennedy, 1917-1963" by Robert Dallek is a comprehensive biography of JFK that delves into his personal life, political career, and presidency. Dallek's writing style is praised for its depth and detail, providing insight into Kennedy's medical history, character, and the challenges he faced. covers significant events in JFK's life, such as the Cuban missile crisis, his health struggles, and his relationships, offering a balanced portrayal of the complex figure that Kennedy was.
IN AUGUST 1947, John F. Kennedy traveled to Ireland. The trip was notable for several reasons. Kennedy was first and foremost a “good New Englander,” an American—so said the Irish ambassador to the Un...- #9
Save:'Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power' by Jon Meacham is a fascinating portrait of one of America's Founding Fathers, focusing on displaying Jefferson's character and political skill. Meacham presents a compelling history of Jefferson, showcasing his complexity and the consistency of his character. The book delves into Jefferson's influence and impact on America's early history, balancing idealism and pragmatism in key moments during the nation's infancy.
HE WAS THE KIND OF MAN people noticed. An imposing, prosperous, well-liked farmer known for his feats of strength and his capacity for endurance in the wilderness, Peter Jefferson had amassed large tr... - #10
Save:'Eisenhower in War and Peace' by Jean Edward Smith is a detailed biography that explores the life of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, focusing on his military career during World War II and his presidency. The book delves into Eisenhower's leadership skills, political acumen, and personal charisma, shedding light on his successes and failures as a general and a president. Written in an engaging and informative style, the biography provides readers with a comprehensive view of Eisenhower's life, from his childhood struggles to his rise to power and his lasting impact on American history. Through interviews, letters, and diaries, the author paints a vivid portrait of a complex and revered leader, offering insights into Eisenhower's military strategies, political decisions, and personal relationships.
Dwight Eisenhower remains an enigma. For the majority of Americans he is a benign fatherly figure looming indistinctly out of the mists of the past—a high-ranking general who directed the Allied armie...
