The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and the Golden Age of Journalism by Doris Kearns Goodwin
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Summary
Doris’s next work is about Theodore Roosevelt and the Progressive Era—a heady, optimistic era when reform was in the air, when the government began for the first time to shed its laissez faire attitude toward the gigantic trusts that were rapidly swallowing up their competitors in one field or another, and when voices were beginning to be raised against the squalid conditions in the immigrant slums and the tenement factories, the unsafe working environments, the diseased foods and fake medicines that flooded an unregulated market.
This book is well-written and enjoyable, but it could have benefited from being divided into multiple volumes to cover the different aspects in more depth. The detailed sections about the journalists from McClure's magazine can be distracting from the central theme of Roosevelt's relationship with Taft. Therefore, be prepared for a long listen with various tangents if you decide to purchase it.
However, reading this book significantly expanded my knowledge of the early 20th century and completely altered my perspective on both Roosevelt and Taft. Prior to reading, I had a positive view of Roosevelt based on his contributions to conservation and the national parks, as well as his military achievements. On the other hand, I had a rather neutral opinion of Taft, considering him to be a relatively unimportant one-term president due to his larger physical stature.
Through meticulous research and references to original sources, Goodwin reveals the true significance of Taft's role. He served as an effective and respected Governor of the Philippines under Roosevelt, successfully diffusing potential conflicts and acting as a peacemaker in Cuba. Taft was also Roosevelt's trusted advisor and preferred successor. As President, he surpassed Roosevelt in breaking up monopolies and played a crucial role in enacting a progressive legislative agenda.
For me, the character of these historical figures holds importance, and Taft truly embodied the qualities I admire. He was universally well-liked, possessing an even temperament, honesty, and loyalty. Although he was hesitant about politics, he excelled as a judge and eventually became the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Roosevelt's presidency was decent, although it contained more bluster than actual substance. He skillfully manipulated the press, similar to Kennedy decades later. Roosevelt was a political enthusiast who thrived in this arena. However, his key mistake was declaring that he would not run for another term after serving nearly two terms as President, which he immediately regretted.
As detailed in the book, Roosevelt and Taft were the closest of friends until Taft assumed the presidency. They spoke highly of each other and seemed inseparable. However, something changed, and TR turned against his friend. Goodwin suggests that this rift originated from a letter Taft wrote, expressing gratitude for TR and his brother's assistance in his election, which TR seemingly wanted sole credit for. Deeply regretting his decision to not run in 1908, TR orchestrated his entry into the race in 1912. During this process, he unjustly and inaccurately attacked his friend at every opportunity.
Failing to secure the Republican nomination, TR formed a third party, splitting the Republican vote and ensuring Wilson's victory. A modern-day parallel would be Ross Perot affecting George H.W. Bush's chances in the 1992 election, although Perot's impact was far less significant compared to TR's influence years earlier. At this point, TR's loyalty to his friend and party was questionable. Essentially, he had become an egomaniac.
While it is true that these men reconciled before Roosevelt's untimely death, Taft played a significant role in engineering their reconciliation. Through extensive research and original sources, Goodwin paints a comprehensive portrait of TR, particularly during his later years when his ego surpassed even that of Donald Trump. While he accomplished some admirable feats, his ill-advised "comeback" led to many questionable actions. Popular history tends to overlook these negative aspects, but Goodwin presents TR "warts and all," revealing more flaws than I previously knew. Ultimately, it is up to the reader to form their own judgment.
Unfortunately, popular history has unjustly shortchanged Taft. However, in reality, he was a well-liked and accomplished man who gracefully accepted defeat and returned to his judicial career. I imagine he departed this world with minimal regrets.
Lastly, the audiobook is narrated by Edward Herrmann, who needs no further introduction.
Edward Hermann brings his sophisticated and friendly narration to a captivating, albeit voluminous, book that delves into the era of Presidents Roosevelt, Taft, and the emergence of investigative journalism. The Progressive Movement gains momentum and significant social transformation prevails. This book is filled with both familiar names and events, as well as numerous lesser-known figures. Doris Kearns Goodwin showcases her extensive knowledge and research skills, crafting a historical masterpiece. Seriously, it's as expansive as TR's ambitions and as weighty as Taft's waistline. It's a heartfelt tribute to the 26th and 27th presidents, but not without a critical lens. While there is much to admire in both men, their flaws are well-documented too. Interestingly, a significant part of this book is a kind of love story between two like-minded individuals, and it's truly captivating to witness its unfolding, subsequent dissolution, and eventual resolution.
Interwoven throughout is the narrative of S.S. McClure, his influential magazine, and the renowned writers and editors he carefully selected, who played a pivotal role in ushering in the 'Golden Age of Journalism.' Way before Woodward and Bernstein, Edward R. Murrow, or even Marie Colvin, it required a visionary leader and a team of literary and critical experts to drive change in public discourse in the United States.
There were moments when I wished I had the print version to double-check the names of certain individuals involved. Nonetheless, there were other instances when the intricate details of legal or legislative battles became slightly difficult to follow. Fortunately, thanks to the rewind button, it's quite feasible to keep up with the engaging array of characters and events.
I absolutely loved this audiobook. I'm grateful for my prior knowledge of Teddy Roosevelt and Lincoln Steffens, which enriched the experience. However, even for newcomers, "The Bully Pulpit" presents a fantastic opportunity to delve into our history and realize that, in many ways, politics hasn't changed all that much.
Doris Kearns Goodwin once again mesmerizes us with her ability to reveal the relevance of history in our present lives. I found it captivating to discover the type of Progressive legislation that Roosevelt and Taft proposed and how we, as a nation, still grapple with finding a balance on these issues.
Goodwin offers a fair portrayal of the strengths and weaknesses of Roosevelt, Taft, and the journalists of that era. Similar to her work in Team of Rivals, she allows readers (or listeners) to witness Roosevelt's growth as a leader, understanding the importance of persuasion and timing in the art of leadership, alongside the power of ideas.
Moreover, the book highlights the critical role played by the news media in driving the necessary political changes during that pivotal period in our history.
For anyone who has an interest in American history or is studying it, this book is an absolute must-read.
This book was a departure from my usual reading choices, and as a Canadian, my knowledge of Teddy Roosevelt was limited. Additionally, I tend to steer clear of lengthy reads, but Doris Kearns Goodwin managed to capture my attention with her captivating account of Roosevelt and Taft. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the book and gained a valuable education about American politics in the 1900s. Goodwin's inclusion of the influential muckraking journalists and their efforts to champion social justice added depth to the events of that era.
Although I was tempted to search for spoilers online to discover how the lives of the characters unfolded, I resisted the urge and waited until I finished the book. Afterwards, I indulged in seeking additional information and videos about the two presidents and their families and friends. Discovering McClure's Magazine was a delight, and I happily spent $5.00 to download issues from 1906 to 1910.
If you have an interest in history, I highly recommend giving this audiobook a listen. It's rare to find a non-fiction book about a bygone era that can be followed by visual glimpses of the main characters. The book begins with Roosevelt's return from Africa and Europe after his presidency ended, and I was amazed to find a video of his boat arriving and witnessing the enthusiastic crowd welcoming him back.
Now, to address any potential concerns from Republican readers who may take offense to my headline, I'm grateful that the service no longer has a dislike button. Nevertheless, I encourage you to explore the remarkable ideas presented in this era, where other Republicans with noble ideals and admirable morals pushed the old conservative guard towards a more compassionate society.
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