Presidential Leadership

Why did George Washington personally lead the militia that put down the Whiskey Rebellion? What drove Harry Truman to fire Douglas MacArthur at the height of the Korean War? Did Gerald Ford know that his pardon of Richard Nixon could very well end his political career? Why did John F. Kennedy challenge America to reach for the moon?Author Nick Ragone, a contributor to US News & World Report.com, examines more than a dozen major decisions of the presidency-Truman dropping the Bomb; Nixon going to China; Jefferson purchasing the Louisiana Territory-and the stories behind them. Told in a crisp, narrative writing style, Ragone brings the presidency and its big decisions to life with his unique storytelling and pacing, and highlights the lessons to be learned.Some of the decisions are well known; others are not. But they're all told in a way that will keep you turning the pages to learn more. Each chapter stands as a study in leadership and decision-making. By the end of the book, you'll be an expert in the men and the decisions that shaped the country, and the lessons that can be learned from their leadership and often their courage.With a prologue that assesses President Obama's first year in office and reviews his major decisions, this lively, illuminating book will appeal to history buffs, devotees of politics, students, and anyone interested in decision-making at the highest and most influential level.Nick Ragone, JD (Jersey City, NJ), is the author of The Everything American Government Book, Essential American Government, and President's Most Wanted: The Top Ten Book of Extraordinary Executives, Colorful Campaigns, and White House Oddities. He has written on recent presidential history and current events for USNewsWorldReport.com and has also appeared on The CBS Early Show, CNBC, ABC News, and Wall Street Journal TV. He is a regular contributor to the Fox News Channel and the Fox Business Network.