Lyndon Johnson

The Path to Power by Robert Caro

Means of Ascent by Robert Caro

Master of the Senate by Robert Caro

The Passage of Power by Robert Caro

Tier One

This is it. The top of the mountain. The greatest presidential biographies ever written. Why stop there? The greatest biographies ever written. The greatest history books ever written. The greatest books ever… ok, I’ll stop there, but if you told me that you thought these were the best books of any kind ever written, I wouldn’t argue. All the pathos and grand scope of Tolstoy combined with the most exhaustive research you’ll ever find. They are perfect. Long, but perfect.

So, let’s get into it.

Robert A. Caro's monumental series of books on Lyndon B. Johnson stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the power of research, determination, and narrative craftsmanship. Stretching across four volumes (with a fifth in the works), Caro's examination of the life and career of one of America's most enigmatic and complex political figures is a literary masterpiece that transcends the traditional boundaries of biography.

The story of Lyndon B. Johnson is the story of the American Dream personified. Raised in the impoverished Hill Country of Texas, Johnson emerged from obscurity to become one of the most influential figures in American politics. This rise to power is a testament to Johnson's indomitable determination and cunning political acumen. Caro masterfully captures this remarkable journey, which serves as a source of inspiration for anyone who believes that a humble beginning need not define the course of their life.

But as Caro demonstrates, Johnson's ascent to power was not without its controversial and morally ambiguous moments. Johnson was known for his ruthless political maneuvering, and the infamous "Box 13" scandal in his 1948 Senate race stands as a stark reminder of his willingness to do whatever it took to secure victory. While such actions may be viewed with disdain by some, Caro presents them with a nuanced perspective, forcing readers to grapple with the complexity of a man who would go to great lengths to achieve his goals.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Caro's work is his ability to paint a vivid portrait of a man who was both a champion of civil rights and a figure who exhibited troubling racism at times. Johnson's political career was marked by his support for groundbreaking civil rights legislation, culminating in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These landmark achievements were instrumental in attempting to scale back some of the long history of racial discrimination in the United States. Caro skillfully examines the dichotomy of a man who, while championing civil rights, could also use derogatory language and employ questionable tactics when it suited his political purposes. Johnson's ability to adapt and evolve in response to the changing times is emblematic of the broader evolution of American society in the mid-20th century, and Caro captures this transformation with precision and insight.

Caro's writing style is unique in the realm of biography. He is not only known for crafting captivating prose in the traditional sense but also for his tireless dedication to research and his remarkable storytelling ability. His commitment to unearthing every detail of Johnson's life and the era in which he lived is unparalleled. Caro's meticulous attention to detail, exhaustive interviews, and extensive archival research result in a level of depth and richness that few biographers can match.

The books in Caro's series are not for the faint of heart. They are long and densely packed with information, making them a formidable undertaking for even the most dedicated readers. However, the rewards of delving into Caro's work are immeasurable. He doesn't merely provide a biographical account of Johnson, he transports the reader to the tumultuous times in which Johnson lived and the corridors of power he navigated.

In addition to its focus on Lyndon Johnson, Caro's series also serves as a fascinating exploration of the broader political and social landscape of mid-20th-century America. Caro skillfully weaves the stories of other key figures, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Sam Rayburn, and John F. Kennedy, into the narrative. This approach not only enriches the reader's understanding of Johnson but also provides mini-biographies of these influential individuals, creating a comprehensive tapestry of the era.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Caro's writing is his ability to humanize the giants of history. He strips away the mythologies that often surround figures like Johnson, revealing the personal struggles, insecurities, and ambitions that drove them. This nuanced portrayal of historical figures allows readers to connect on a deeper level, realizing that these men were not infallible heroes or nefarious villains but rather complex individuals navigating the turbulent waters of their time.

Lyndon B. Johnson's presidency was marked by tumultuous events, from the Civil Rights Movement to the Vietnam War (we’re awaiting more detail on this in the coming book). Caro's meticulous research and compelling narrative provide readers with an intimate look into Johnson's decision-making process, the internal struggles he faced, and the high-stakes game of politics. Caro's ability to contextualize these events within the larger framework of Johnson's life and career elevates the series beyond a simple biography. It becomes a comprehensive examination of a pivotal period in American history.

Caro's books on Lyndon B. Johnson are, without a doubt, some of the most engrossing and enlightening books ever written. They offer readers a front-row seat to the transformation of a nation and the complex life of a man who played a central role in shaping it. The series is a testament to the power of research, the resilience of the human spirit, and the intricate interplay of ambition, ethics, and power.

In conclusion, Robert A. Caro's series on Lyndon B. Johnson is a monumental achievement in the realm of biography and historical writing. Caro's tireless dedication to research, his ability to capture the complexity of his subject, and his masterful storytelling combine to create a literary experience that is both intellectually rewarding and emotionally resonant. These books are not to be taken lightly, but for those willing to embark on this journey, the payoff is a deeper understanding of one of the most enigmatic figures in American history and the era in which he lived. Robert Caro's work stands as a testament to the enduring power of the written word to illuminate the past and inspire reflection on the present.

They don’t get better than this.