In her book, Leadership: In Turbulent Times, Pulitzer Prize-winner Doris Kearns Goodwin takes an up-close-and-personal look at four of the greatest leaders in American history: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson. Drawing on her decades of experience researching these iconic figures, Goodwin explains how each of them developed the qualities of character, creativity and resilience needed to overcome extraordinary obstacles and mobilize people to deliver results in times of crisis.
Goodwin begins by examining Lincoln's meteoric rise from an impoverished origins to become one of the most influential leaders in American history. She explains how his innate qualities of emotional intelligence, compassion, and moral courage allowed him to preside over the Union during the Civil War and emancipate the slaves.
Throughout the book, Goodwin conducts extensive historical analysis of the four presidents, providing insight into the political climate during each one's tenure. For example, she explains how Roosevelt managed to maneuver around the paralysis of government created by gridlock between progressives and conservatives to bring about needed social reforms and how Johnson successfully passed the Civil Rights Act and the War on Poverty programs.
Goodwin then shifts her focus to the qualities needed for effective leadership, including the ability to cultivate relationships, remain cool under pressure, and take risks. To illustrate her points, she uses anecdotes and examples of each president's various successes and setbacks including Roosevelt's ambitious yet unsuccessful attempt to break the power of big business and Johnson's efforts to pass the Great Society programs.
In the final section of the book, Goodwin outlines strategies which contemporary leaders can emulate to achieve success in our still-turbulent times. She contends that today's leaders must have the courage to roll up their sleeves and work to restore public trust and confidence in our government and institutions. She explains why leaders must engage citizens directly in order to gain their support and how understanding the public's hopes and dreams can empower them to create meaningful change.
Goodwin's engaging prose, combined with her expert insights and captivating anecdotes, makes Leadership: In Turbulent Times an absolute must-read. With its illuminating examination of historical figures and its modern-day advice for today's leaders, it is an essential guide for anyone striving to make a difference in our complex and ever-changing world. Whether for business or politics, readers of all ages can learn valuable lessons from the four presidents featured in Goodwin's book, helping them to realize their own potential for successful leadership.
