Rayburn: A Biography - Hardcover

Hardeman, D. B.; Bacon, Donald C.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0932012035 ISBN 13: 9780932012036

Publisher: Texas Monthly Pr, 1987

Synopsis

Sam Rayburn guided the most important legislation of the 20th century through Congress—from the New Deal to the New Frontier—and served under eight presidents during his remarkable 49-year congressional career.Rayburn is the award-winning biography of the Texas Democrat whose tenure of 17 years as Speaker of the House of Representatives has never been equalled.

About this title

From Publishers Weekly:

Sam Rayburn made available his congressional papers, personal correspondence and taped conversation with the late Hardeman to Bacon (Congress and You, who completed this biography. The book presents an intimate look at a man who had the longest law-making career in American history, having served in the House of Representatives for 49 years at the time of his death in 1961. As Speaker of the House, "Mr. Sam" epitomized honesty and integrity in public service. Referred to here as "arguably the most underrated public official in twentieth-century politics," he is revealed as a major architect of New Deal legislation, adviser to presidents from Wilson to Kennedy, and a man whose "outrageously optimistic dreams came true." Rayburn's legislative battles are described in detail, from his confrontation with public-utility holding companies in the '30s to his last major victory, a showdown with conservatives over control of the House Committee on Rules. Also covered are Truman's reliance on the Speaker's counsel and the father-son relationship between Rayburn and his protege, Lyndon Johnson. An inspiring portrait of a politician who may have been the last of his kind. Photos.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review:

This long-awaited biography brings Sam Rayburn to life so vividly that it will be the standard against which other writings about him will be measured. It is a marvelous achievement: comprehensive, clear, deep and full of surprises. (Washington Post Book World)

An insider's view of the power that was Rayburn's. (The New York Times)

An intimate look at a man who had the longest law-making career in American history. (Publishers Weekly)

A worthy and fascinating account of monumental legislative achievements. This is fine history, warm and personal, and enriched with a treasure of anecdotes about eight presidents. (Texas Books In Review)

About this edition

• Publisher: Texas Monthly Pr
• Publication date: 1987
• ISBN 10: 0932012035
• ISBN 13: 9780932012036
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 554