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Being Nixon
640 pages, 2016
The New York Times bestselling biography of Richard M. Nixon, a political savant whose gaping character flaws would drive him from office and forever taint his legacy. One of the principal architects of the modern Republican Party, Nixon has also historically been deemed a liberal in some quarters for his efforts to desegregate Southern schools, create the Environmental Protection Agency, and end the draft.
—A starkly original portrait—the first full biography of Richard Nixon in thirty years—from Evan Thomas, author of the New York Times bestseller The War Lovers “Nixon’s story is as complicated as it is compelling . . . Thomas’s approach enlivens this narrative with telling anecdotes and exceptional analysis. ” —Publishers Weekly
In 'Being Nixon', Evan Thomas paints a vivid picture of Nixon's complex personality. He was not just a politician, but also a human being with insecurities and ambitions. Thomas encourages us to explore Nixon's life beyond his political career, to understand his motivations and actions.
The book takes us on a journey through Nixon's early life, showing how his upbringing shaped his character. His humble beginnings and struggles in his early years played a significant role in his political career. It's worth taking a look at how these experiences influenced his decisions as a president.
Evan Thomas provides a detailed account of Nixon's presidency, highlighting both his achievements and failures. He doesn't shy away from discussing the Watergate scandal, but also emphasizes Nixon's contributions, such as his efforts to end the Vietnam War and his diplomatic relations with China.
Thomas also gives us a glimpse into Nixon's private life, showing a side of him that was often hidden from the public eye. He was a man of contradictions - introverted yet charismatic, insecure yet ambitious. This book encourages us to see Nixon as a whole, beyond his political persona.
Finally, 'Being Nixon' offers valuable lessons from Nixon's life. Despite his flaws and mistakes, he was a man of resilience who never gave up. His life serves as a reminder that success is not just about winning, but also about learning from our failures and persevering in the face of adversity.
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Evan Thomas has crafted an extraordinary portrait that neither condemns nor lionizes Nixon. It is an eye-opening, riveting read.
Jon Meacham - Pulitzer-winning BiographerBeing Nixon is a fascinating exploration of an incredibly complex man. Evan Thomas brilliantly portrays Nixon's strengths and weaknesses.
Bob Woodward - Investigative JournalistEvan Thomas' Being Nixon is a nuanced, insightful and compelling portrait of a man whose life was filled with contradictions.
Doris Kearns Goodwin - Historian, AuthorBeing Nixon is a superbly written narrative, a deeply insightful analysis of an enigmatic man.
David McCullough - Historian, AuthorEvan Thomas' Being Nixon is a masterful portrait of Nixon, allowing us to understand the man in a new light.
Walter Isaacson - Biographer, JournalistRecommendations
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Being Nixon found in libraries
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