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The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Jon Meacham

The Soul of America

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

375

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Soul of America by Jon Meacham examines periods in US history where the politics of fear clashed with the politics of hope, focusing on issues such as racial justice and anti-immigrant nativism. It covers eras from Reconstruction through the civil rights movement to the Trump administration, analyzing the presidential power in shaping social change and advocating for hope amidst division.

Inspirational

Informative

Hopeful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

21,970 ratings

87%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jon Meacham's The Soul of America is lauded for its insightful historical analysis, eloquent prose, and timely reflection on America's enduring ideals and struggles. Some critics find it overly optimistic and lacking in depth on certain topics. Overall, it serves as an enlightening, if occasionally idealistic, reminder of the nation's potential for progress amidst adversity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Soul of America?

A reader who would enjoy The Soul of America by Jon Meacham is likely passionate about American history and politics. They appreciate thoughtful and engaging narratives similar to Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals or David McCullough's John Adams. This audience values in-depth historical analysis and reflection on the United States’ democratic ideals.

4.5

21,970 ratings

87%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Lyndon B. Johnson

The 36th president of the United States, who succeeded John F. Kennedy and is noted for his civil rights achievements and domestic policies, although his legacy is complicated by his role in escalating the Vietnam War.

The 32nd president of the United States, he led the nation through the Great Depression and most of World War II, implementing the New Deal and guiding America into the war after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The 16th president of the United States, celebrated for leading the country during the Civil War and issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which contributed to the abolition of slavery.

A U.S. senator known for his role in the anti-communist Red Scare of the 1950s, exploiting public fears and media coverage to gain political power, eventually leading to his censure by the Senate.

The 26th president of the United States, known for his progressive reforms aimed at controlling corporations and protecting consumers, as well as for his later support of the women's suffrage movement.

The 28th president of the United States, whose tenure included World War I and who supported women's suffrage, but whose legacy is tarnished by his actions to resegregate federal offices and support segregationist policies.

The 17th president of the United States, who faced impeachment due to his opposition to the Radical Republicans' Reconstruction measures following the Civil War, as he aligned with Southern Democrats.

Book Details
Pages

375

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 20th Century

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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