Who is the author of 'Accidental Presidents'?

The author of 'Accidental Presidents' is Jared Cohen.

What are the main themes in 'Accidental Presidents'?

The main themes in 'Accidental Presidents' include Political History, Political Leaders, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'Accidental Presidents'?

'Accidental Presidents' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs.

Who is the author of 'Accidental Presidents'?

The author of 'Accidental Presidents' is Jared Cohen.

What is the main theme of 'Accidental Presidents'?

The main theme of 'Accidental Presidents' by Jared Cohen revolves around the idea of how unexpected circumstances can lead to significant leadership changes and decisions in American history. The book explores the lives and presidencies of leaders who ascended to the presidency unexpectedly, often due to assassination, resignation, or other unforeseen events, and examines how these leaders navigated their abrupt transitions into power, shaping the nation in ways they might not have anticipated.

Can you name one president discussed in the book?

One president discussed in the book 'Accidental Presidents' by Jared Cohen is Lyndon B. Johnson.

How does the author define an 'accidental president'?

In 'Accidental Presidents,' Jared Cohen defines an 'accidental president' as a leader who assumes the presidency unexpectedly, often due to the death or resignation of the sitting president. These individuals typically have not been elected to the position themselves and may lack the experience or support of a traditional presidential campaign. The book explores how these accidental presidents navigate their unforeseen circumstances and the impact they have on American history.

What is one key point made in the book about leadership?

One key point made in 'Accidental Presidents' by Jared Cohen is the idea that circumstances and unexpected events can significantly shape leaders and their decisions. The book explores how some leaders came to power unexpectedly and how their backgrounds, experiences, and the context of their presidency influenced their leadership styles and the choices they made during pivotal moments in history.

Accidental Presidents Book Summary

In 'Accidental Presidents', Jared Cohen explores the unexpected rise of U.S. leaders who ascended to the presidency by chance rather than through traditional paths. From political mishaps to sudden deaths, these leaders had to navigate unique challenges that transformed their presidencies and the nation. Cohen delves into their distinct personalities and pivotal moments, revealing how fortune and fate can shape history. This compelling narrative raises questions about leadership, legacy, and the unpredictability of political power. Discover how chance encounters led to monumental changes and what this means for the future of American leadership.

By Jared Cohen

Published: 2020

"In the chaos of leadership, it is often the unexpected moments that define history’s true architects."

This New York Times bestselling “deep dive into the terms of eight former presidents is chock-full of political hijinks—and déjà vu” (Vanity Fair) and provides a fascinating look at the men who came to the office without being elected to it, showing how each affected the nation and world. The strength and prestige of the American presidency has waxed and waned since George Washington. Eight men have succeeded to the presidency when the incumbent died in office. In one way or another they vastly changed our history. Only Theodore Roosevelt would have been elected in his own right. Only TR, Truman, Coolidge, and LBJ were re-elected. John Tyler succeeded William Henry Harrison who died 30 days into his term. He was kicked out of his party and became the first president threatened with impeachment. Millard Fillmore succeeded esteemed General Zachary Taylor. He immediately sacked the entire cabinet and delayed an inevitable Civil War by standing with Henry Clay’s compromise of 1850. Andrew Johnson, who succeeded our greatest president, sided with remnants of the Confederacy in Reconstruction. Chester Arthur, the embodiment of the spoils system, was so reviled as James Garfield’s successor that he had to defend himself against plotting Garfield’s assassination; but he reformed the civil service. Theodore Roosevelt broke up the trusts. Calvin Coolidge silently cooled down the Harding scandals and preserved the White House for the Republican Herbert Hoover and the Great Depression. Harry Truman surprised everybody when he succeeded the great FDR and proved an able and accomplished president. Lyndon B. Johnson was named to deliver Texas electorally. He led the nation forward on Civil Rights but failed on Vietnam. Accidental Presidents shows that “history unfolds in death as well as in life” (The Wall Street Journal) and adds immeasurably to our understanding of the power and limits of the American presidency in critical times.

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