Amazon.com
This episode of
Biography from the A&E network was produced in 1999, and while it offers a look at the life of George W. Bush, the narrative ends before the 2000 presidential campaign began. As Bush's father served as president and his grandfather was a U.S. senator from Connecticut, the role of Bush family, which wielded influence in banking as well as politics, is explored. A childhood spent in Texas (after his birth in Connecticut) is described, and people who knew George W. as a child and later as a teenager at an exclusive New England prep school recall him for having a sense of humor and sociable demeanor. His life as a fraternity president at Yale is mentioned, and there are passing references to a hazing scandal and "partying." But there really is little controversy raised by this program beyond later noting that as an adult "years of partying were beginning to take their toll." Bush himself appears on camera and talks cheerfully about giving up drinking as he entered his 40s. Texas journalists, including Molly Ivins and Bush biographer Bill Minutaglio, appear to speak about Bush's entry into politics and his run for the Texas statehouse. Viewers seeking a generally upbeat overview of Bush's life before running for president will no doubt enjoy this program, though it's fair to note that it breaks little new ground.
--Robert J. McNamara
Product Description
Since his impressive victory last year, as the first Governor ever to be elected to a second term in the history of Texas, George W. Bush has been touted as the front-runner among possible Republican candidates for the Presidency. This BIOGRAPHY traces George W’s life from his childhood, growing up in the small town of Midland, Texas, to occupying the Governors Mansion in Austin, Texas.
