Jon Meacham’s new biography about George H.W. Bush is generating headlines, but it could be how the author gained access to the former President’s thoughts that will interest historians most.
Information has been coming out the book’s contents this week, before “Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush” is officially published next Tuesday. (Note: Meacham will be appearing at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on Thursday, November 12 at a public event to discuss the book.)
Mike Allen from Politico has followed the project for years and he said on Thursday that Meacham had access to “once-in-a-century” archives.
For example, President Bush dictated his thoughts while on the job at the White House into a tape recorder, tapes “which often have the rotors of Marine One or the engines of Air Force One in the background. Many were made at Camp David – a sitting president, speaking his mind in real time, Allen said.
Meacham also had access to all of Barbara Bush’s diaries going back to 1948 and extensive personal access to the former President and former First Lady.
The book also covers Bush’s more than seven decades of public service, from his time in the armed services during World War II to his post-presidency career.
Event Information
Presidential historian and bestselling author Jon Meacham unveils his sweeping yet intimate biography of George H. W. Bush—charting Bush’s storied rise in politics from congressman to U.N. ambassador to head of the CIA to 41st president. Ryan Lizza, CNN contributor and Washington correspondent for The New Yorker, moderates.
All guests will receive a copy of Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush. A special book signing opportunity with Jon Meacham will follow the program.
Click here for event details
