The Confidante

The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America

By: Christopher C. Gorham

Narrated by: Ann Richardson

Length: 14 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

Though Anna Rosenberg emerged from modest immigrant beginnings, equipped with only a high school education, she was the real power behind national policies critical to America winning the war and prospering afterwards. Astonishingly, her story remains largely forgotten.

With a disarming mix of charm and Tammany-hewn toughness, Rosenberg began her career in public relations in 1920s Manhattan. As FDR's unofficial adviser, Rosenberg soon wielded enormous influence—no less potent for being subtle. Her extraordinary career continued after his death.

By 1950, she was tapped to become the assistant secretary of defense—the highest position ever held by a woman in the US military—prompting Senator Joe McCarthy to wage an unsuccessful smear campaign against her. Until the end of her life, Rosenberg fought tirelessly for causes from racial integration to women's equality to national healthcare.

More than the story of one remarkable woman, The Confidante explores who gets to be at the forefront of history, and why. In this inspiring, impeccably researched, and revelatory book, Christopher C. Gorham at last affords Anna Rosenberg the recognition she so richly deserves.

©2023 Christopher C. Gorham (P)2023 Tantor

Amazing woman!

(As posted in Goodreads)
Most of my readers know that I am not a history buff, so it should come as no surprise that I didn't start out liking this book much; the first part was straight history and no personality. But there's a guide into it, it started actually describing the individual personalities better, and I was blown away! I had never heard of Anna Rosenberg, despite the fact that she was clearly extremely important in the governments of a few presidents (notably FDR, LBJ, Eisenhower, and). She was extremely important in the integration of the military; she did a lot toward women's rights and recognition; she didn't work for herself but for the nation.
The book was absolutely fabulous, and in reintroduces the general public to an absolute fabulous personality and federal employee. She was well known in her time, but she has been totally forgotten.
Sad
I definitely appreciate the book for making history decidedly more relatable to a non-history person.

A remarkable woman in US twentieth century history

A good bio of a remarkable woman who had significant influence in the middle of the previous century for US government activities, especially concerning labor relations, war production, and support for military personnel during and after WWII and the Korean war.

How have I never heard of this heroine?

A bit of a slow start but hang in there. This book is worth the time and credits. One of the best listens I’ve had in years.

Wow! A must read

An incredible woman and story of a most influential person in American history. such positive impact on the lives of Americans. Everyone should read/listen to this account.
I loved it!

Compelling and too-little known story about an amazing, important American

Great narrator, beautifully written, this book tells the story of a uniquely talented, accomplished and savvy woman whose life and work improved our lives—and whose story needs to be told and appreciated by all Americans.

Fascinating account of all Anna Rosenberg did!!

I loved this book and only wish my parents were atill.alive so we could discuss all that Anna did to improve the way people were treated in our government and military while she worked with so many of our presidents. She really cared about all of those in the schools,military and government jobs, and the citizens of our country. She worked hard against segregation, discrimination against women, and prejudice of any kind! This was a great book.to read or.listen too! highly recommend!

An encouraging read!

Anna was a trailblazer for women in politics. We need more of her kind; smart, dedicated, selfless, and with the goal of what was best for the citizens.

Every minute of this Audio is interesting

If you are a 20th century history buff, you will love this biography. Every chapter was immensely interesting and the narration was just right.
I don’t recall ever hearing about Anna Rosenberg but she deserves a prominent place in American history.
While, I am fairly well read about the 30s, 40s, 50s and early 60s, there were more than a few tidbits in the book I had never known. I especially loved that Anna was a clever and brilliant woman who had such impact in a traditionally man’s world and in American history.

This book needs to be widely read.

Anna M Rosenberg was a behind the scenes worker who had an enormous impact. Working with FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, LBJ, George Marshall and countless other major political figures, Anna Rosenberg was instrumental in shaping The New Deal, social security, desegregation of the military and was a labor mediator extraordinaire. It’s a fascinating read.

Fascinating history of a woman who contributed so much to our country.

Loved this book! Had never heard of Anna Rosenberg who was an incredible woman who contributed so much to our government . Her contributions made life better for so many.