America's Emerald Kings

[H2O Man]

During a time when democrats across the country are both mourning the loss, and celebrating the life, of the man that history will record as the greatest US Senator, I'd like to offer a suggestion. One of the great things about DU, in my experience, has been the numerous books that friends here have recommended. Thus, if you can, I'd recommend getting the book "The Kennedys: America's Emerald Kings," by Thomas Maier. (Basic Books; 2003)

Maier's book makes a fascinating study of how the Kennedy family experienced America, as immigrants forced from their homes in Ireland, over five generations. In the 650-plus pages, he provides a context that helps anyone -- Irish or not -- with a deeper understanding of the "how" and "why" of this family and their contribution to this country and the world.

The author does not avoid any of the controversies, nor does he expand upon the accomplishments. For to do so would be to miss the meaning of the topic.

Needless to say, I've been looking through my collection of books on the family, and especially brothers John, Robert, and Teddy. My collection includes a wide range, from very good to very awful, and a lot in between. Some are books that friends on DU have recommended to me. (For example, I just got a copy of James Douglass's book on JFK. None of the three area book stores I frequent had a copy, or could get one until it is reprinted. And the four-county library system didn't have one, either. Luckily, an old friend was able to find two copies on the internet.)

Peace,
H2O Man

[H2O Man]

1. Another good one

that didn't get the attention it should have is: Robert Kennedy: In His Own Words." It's the (previously) unpublished recollections from the Kennedy administration. (Edited by Guthman & Shulman; Bantam Books; 1988) It's a collection of post-Dallas interviews with Robert, conducted by Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.; Anthony Lewis; Burke Marshall; and John Barlow Martin.

It's a collection of off-the-record discussions, where RFK tells about the administration's experiences, including his opinion of people like LBJ and J Edgar Hoover. My father bought it for me when we were in Boston in 1988, and it is a great read.

[Octafish]

2. Readers are Leaders

JFK wanted his generals and admirals to be well-read. Reading what he wrote, in his own words, should show why:

JFK Wants to Know: Memos from the President's Office, 1961-1963

On the subject of a certain Navy officer who failed to make flag rank, due to his pursuit of advanced scientific degrees, from page 281:

...One of the best ways for one to expand his horizons is through a regular reading program. That is why I have been so interested in the Service programs. The books proposed, and provided, must cover the full range of national security policy -- not just professional military subjects.

The book chronicles exactly why he really was the smartest person in the room.

Regarding the oldest brother, an outstanding book on the subject of Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. and his service in World War II:

Aphrodite: Desperate Mission by Jack Olsen.

PS: I remember a bit of that story of your trip to Boston, H20 Man. Every person your dad asked related a story about how Teddy was of service to them, as individuals, showing how good Democratic politicians connect directly with the people they represent.

[H2O Man]

3. Yep.

Hey -- thanks for stressing how good James Douglass's book is. I finally got a copy for myself, and one for friend. Reading it, I'm struck at how closely the author's positions are to my late father's.

[Me.]

4. So What Did He Think Of LBJ & Hoover?

I can guess but would like confirmation.

[H2O Man]

9. You are correct......

but you'd certainly enjoy reading it. I'll post a few quotes later this week.

[Me.]

10. Good

[H2O Man]

13. Robert had

a talent for expressing his dislike for others.

[mmonk]

5. I remember when I was feeling my darkest

these last few years, I was still struck by Senator Kennedy's emails to his supporters that still seemed to have an optimism about them. Though sometimes I may have been temporarily uplifted, the darkness seemed to stay with me. So I bought his book, "America-Back on Track" by Viking Press when it was published in 2006 and found the same optimism. When I learned of his death, I picked it back up off my shelf and have started rereading it. That is what I have to offer.

[hedgehog]

6. +1 - the author makes explicit many things Irish- Americans

understood in their bones but which were opaque to others.

[H2O Man]

I think that

it is essential to view the Kennedy brothers in that context. They weren't simply "Irish" on St. Patrick's Day. And a lot of people, as you note, can relate to it in a deep and real way.

[maxpower]

7. Thanks H2O man

If you recommend I will read.

Peace
Max

[mmonk]

8. On Douglass's book, how would you rate it?

[H2O Man]

12. A+

I have to admit that I like it so much, because it reminds me of listening to my father explain why others were so strongly opposed to what JFK was attempting to do in office. The powers-that-be had not viewed him as having much depth. They thought that he'd serve a single term, and fail to do anything, except what he was told. He surprised the heck out of them.

[mmonk]

14. Good enough for me. I guess I have two to buy then.

[EFerrari]

11. Thank you for the recommendation. n/t