'Mr. President'

George Washington and the Making of the Nation's Highest Office

By: Harlow Giles Unger

Narrated by: Robertson Dean

Length: 6 hrs and 57 mins

Publisher's summary

Although the framers gave the president little authority, Washington knew whatever he did would set precedents for generations of his successors. To ensure their ability to defend the nation, he simply ignored the Constitution when he thought it necessary and reshaped the presidency into what James Madison called a "monarchical presidency." Modern scholars call it the "imperial presidency."

A revealing new look at the birth of American government, "Mr.President" describes George Washington's assumption of office in a time of continual crisis, as riots, rebellion, internecine warfare, and attacks by foreign enemies threatened to destroy the new nation. Drawing on rare documents and letters, Unger shows how Washington combined political cunning, daring, and sheer genius to seize ever-widening powers to solve each crisis.

In a series of brilliant but unconstitutional maneuvers, Washington forced Congress to cede control of the four pillars of executive power: war, finance, foreign affairs, and law enforcement. Then, in the absence of Congress, he sent troops to fight Indian wars, crush tax revolts, and put down threats of secession by three states.

Constantly weighing preservation of the Union against preservation of individual liberties and states' rights, Washington assumedmore power with each crisis. Often only a breath away from reestablishing the tyranny he pledged to destroy in the Revolutionary War, he imposed law andorder across the land while ensuring individual freedom and self-government.

©2013 Harlow Giles Unger (P)2013 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

very interesting

I found this to be very interesting and informative. Any student of history or just people who are curious should find this interesting. It paints a fair picture, not leaning towards too much praise or condemnation. I was surprised at several things that happened to Washington resonate with things happening now. The narrator did a fine job with the material.

All should read this book.

Loved the detail and the actual references directly from the letter of such great men.

An Excellent & Honest Historical Record.

I Cannot Recommended This Biography of Washington enough. First & Foremost NO Revisionist Bias.

A Wonderful Experience

I thoroughly enjoyed every facet of this informative reading! I am so glad I had this opportunity to learn more of our early US history and lt’s makers!!!

A Great lesson in the building of the United State

Fantastic Book. A must read for all those that live in and call the USA home.

A political genius

Harlow Giles Unger has written an excellent study into the seven pillars of power that the US President has thanks to George Washington. Although I think his generalship was dubious at best, his political thinking, manoeuvring and strategy especially after the War of Independence is well worth the study. Although they do mention the weight in later years, the arthritis and false teeth I was disappointed no ice-cream was mentioned. Never the less if it wasn't for George, I doubt if the USA would be what it is today.

Good Story with Info I had not Heard Elsewhere

Good story and narrative focusing a bit more on Washington as a man than on just his actions. Unfortunately, the narration was flat, but it was clear, understandable and of a pleasant tone.

Great Listen

I’ve listened to several historical biographies by Unger, and honestly I don’t think he’s my favorite, but he exceeded my expectations with this one. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. His analysis of Washington’s impact on the shaping of the presidency was insightful and informative. Great book for anyone interested in Washington, the Presidency, or Revolutionary figures.

Mr. President is appropriate

Excellent research and depth into the personal life and emotion of Washington. The seven pillars of the office were something I have never considered. Shifting from action to first person narrative was seamless and engaging. I did a lot of clipping during the read. Bravo Mr. Unger.

Good listen

We tend to think that Washington’s presidency was easy since he was unanimously elected, but he certainly had difficulties! A French ambassador threatened the independence of the US in hopes to take North America for France. Frontier Americans staged a revolt due to high taxes. As the first president, Washington had to make decisions and set precedents for future generations. He managed all of these crises and more.
Great listen but Two things: Author sometimes loses sight of the fact that, although Washington had enemies, he was still incredibly popular with the vast majority of American leaders and citizens. Second: Author’s analysis of 21st century political events at end of book inaccurate and off topic. Otherwise good book.