Woodrow Wilson as I Know Him   By: Joseph P. Tumulty

Woodrow Wilson as I Know Him by Joseph P. Tumulty is an engaging exploration of the enigmatic personality of one of America's most influential presidents. Tumulty brings forth a wealth of personal anecdotes and insights, providing readers with an intimate look into the character and leadership style of Woodrow Wilson.

The book delves into Tumulty's experiences as Wilson's private secretary and confidant, allowing us to gain deep insights into the inner workings of Wilson's mind and his decision-making process. Tumulty's writing style is captivating, as he seamlessly weaves together personal observations, historical events, and political context to create a comprehensive portrait of the man.

One of the book's strengths lies in Tumulty's ability to portray both Wilson's strengths and weaknesses with honesty and objectivity. He offers a balanced perspective, highlighting Wilson's idealism and progressive vision, while also acknowledging the challenges and flaws in his political approach.

Moreover, Tumulty's account affords readers a unique glimpse into the tumultuous political climate of the time, particularly during Wilson's presidency. He details the struggles Wilson faced while navigating domestic issues, such as labor disputes and women's suffrage, as well as international affairs, including World War I and the Treaty of Versailles negotiations.

Tumulty's storytelling is vivid and vivid, making it easy for readers to empathize with the complexity of Wilson's character. His personal involvement in Wilson's administration provides an authenticity that allows for a deeper appreciation of the man's achievements and failures.

However, one minor drawback of the book is its occasional indulgence in lengthy tangents, which can distract readers from the central focus. While these diversions occasionally offer valuable historical context, they may feel unnecessary or disjointed for readers seeking a more straightforward account.

Overall, Woodrow Wilson as I Know Him offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative of a complex figure in American history. Tumulty's intimate knowledge of Wilson's personality and political career shines through, providing readers with a window into the life and times of this influential leader. Whether one is a history enthusiast or simply curious about the inner workings of political power, this book offers a valuable perspective on one of America's most significant presidents.

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In preparing this volume I have made use of portions of the following books: "The War The World and Wilson" by George Creel; "What Wilson Did at Paris," by Ray Stannard Baker; "Woodrow Wilson and His Work" by William E. Dodd; "The Panama Canal Tolls Controversy" by Hugh Gordon Miller and Joseph C. Freehoff; "Woodrow Wilson the Man and His Work" by Henry Jones Ford; "The Real Colonel House" by Arthur D. Howden Smith; "The Foreign Policy of Woodrow Wilson" by Edgar E. Robinson and Victor J. West. In addition, I wish to make acknowledgment to the following books for incidental assistance: "My Four Years in Germany" by James W. Gerard; "Woodrow Wilson, An Interpretation" by A. Maurice Low; "A People Awakened" by Charles Reade Bacon; "Woodrow Wilson" by Hester E. Hosford; "What Really Happened at Paris," edited by Edward Mandell House and Charles Seymour, and above all, to the public addresses of Woodrow Wilson. I myself had furnished considerable data for various books on Woodrow Wilson and have felt at liberty to make liberal use of some portions of these sources as guide posts for my own narrative... Continue reading book >>