From Library Journal
This biographical guide to the life of Andrew Johnson consists of an introductory eight-page biographical sketch, over 180 encyclopedic articles, historical documents, a chronology, and a bibliography. The main part of the book consists of the articles, which are arranged alphabetically from "Alabama Claims" to "Wirz, Henry" and average 1000-2000 words, though some run much longer. Each article includes references to other articles in the work and to outside sources, especially The Papers of Andrew Johnson, edited by the same authors, both of whom have worked for years on the former President's papers. The articles are well written and concisely explain each subject. Overall, the book depicts Johnson as a self-educated man whose unwillingness to compromise his principles led him into conflict with Congress over Reconstruction. Not for the casual reader, this would be a worthy addition wherever there is more than cursory interest in Johnson and is essential for major research libraries. Lawrence R. Maxted, Gannon Univ., Erie, PA
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
In a unique approach to biography, ABC-CLIO has been developing a series of encyclopedic guides to influential figures of the Western world. This volume treats Andrew Johnson, who remains a mysterious and complex man and president. Both of the editors spent several years working on the University of Tennessee collection of Johnson's papers, and to a large extent they have relied on the papers and other primary sources in preparing this resource.
A short introduction to Johnson sets the tone for the work, explaining his significance and impact. Most of the volume consists of about 260 alphabetically arranged entries varying in length from a half-page to ten pages. Coverage seems appropriate in light of the book's objective to "examine Johnson's place in the history of the United States" and "place his ideas and actions within historical context to help explain his attitudes and decisions." Topics cover people, documents, events, places, and laws. Representative entries include Alta Vela (a small but surprisingly significant Caribbean island); Farewell address (1869); Homestead Act; Masonic Order; Nephews; Slaves, owned by Johnson; and many major and minor personalities. In each case, the topic is defined and introduced, then detailed in terms of its relationship to Johnson. Cross-references and a list of source materials conclude each entry. Several appendixes enhance the volume: congressional acts and bills (including the Articles of Impeachment), a four-page chronology, and an extensive bibliography. Writing is clear and accessible, authoritative without being pedantic.
With the impeachment of Bill Clinton, there may be greater interest in the only other impeached U.S. president. This resource provides an interesting counterpart to other works on the era, particularly for academic and large public library settings.
RBB
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