John Braeman

This is a small volume, 186 pages including the bibliographical notes and the index. And it is an unusual book. It is divided into three sections, after a short 14 page biography. The three sections are "Woodrow Wilson Looks at the World", Woodrow Wilson viewed by his comtempories" and "Woodrow Wilson in History".

The first section is all in Woodrow Wilson's writtings, either addresses, speeches, or letters written by him. It is further divided into sections such as his scholar years, his lead up to the White House, and his actual Presidency. The second section is just about the same as the first, only the writtings come from Wilson's comtempories, both pro and con, and span his public career. The third section is the shortest, as it is basically three essays by professional historians, each examining a facet of Wilson's career.

I would not recommend this book for someone looking for a first taste of Wilson. It is more geared toward the thinking behind what was going on, not what actually went on. After a through knowledge of Wilson and the era involved, it would be a much better read.… (mer)