Customer Reviews

Founding Friendship: George Washington, James Madison, and the Creation of the American Republic (Constitutionalism and Democracy Series)

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Few books have treated this topic, Madison and Washington's collaboration, and this is an excellent treatment. Unravelling the waxing and waning of this relationship serves well those interested in the Federalist Era. The scholarship is obvious, and the presentaion is good. Those interested in the unfoldings of the Republic must pay attention to the Father of the Country, and his relationship to the Father of the Constituion. Liebiger allows an enormous view of Washington's dignity as a statesman, and Madison's erudition in the realm of Constituion building, amongst other federalist era realtionships, this collaboration was as crucial as any, and a topic long overdue.

Why did republican government work so well for the USA and so badly for most other countries? Contrast the enlightenment of Washington and Madison with the depravity of politicians who brought "democracy" to Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.

"Founding Friendship" was written with an enjoyable and informative style. The quality of research and insights is excellent. Details abound, giving the reader deeper understanding not only of the relationship between Washington and Madison but also important historical events such as ratification of the Constitution.

John Christmas, author of "Democracy Society"