Customer Reviews

Philip Dru, Administrator

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(7)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

_Philip Dru_ is an extremely obscure political tract written in 1911 by "Colonel" Edward Mandell House, a key advisor to Woodrow Wilson and FDR. This is what makes the book so shocking. The book advocates the violent overthrow of the constitutional government and proposes a communist/socialist system as its replacement. Considering that the man who wrote this book had such a close position to the president, it's no surprise that some of the ideas in this book eventually became public policy.

Philip Dru, the main character, is a West Point graduate who eventually resigns his post and becomes involved in social problems. Dru is chosen to lead an army against the U.S. government led by a puppet president. When Dru gains control he throws the Constitution out the window and nationalizes industries such as the telegraph (remember, it's 1911) and makes corporations subservient to government. He promises a job to every American, and rewrites the state constitutions. Watch for the part where Senator Selwyn talks about how he used direct marketing, etc., to get his man elected as president. Most of what he used is standard operating procedure today. In this book, the people revolt over what he does!

I give the book a low rating because the style is absolutely atrocious. Forget about any kind of character development. It is a poor attempt to wrap up a political treatise to make it palatable to the average joe. If you can get around the cruddy style, there is some gold to be found. This edition is a reprint by the John Birch Society. Give it a shot!

Adolph Hitler's "Mein Kampf" was poorly written, too, but no one would doubt it's importance. So it is with "Philip Dru: Administrator".

Certain facts, once denied, reveal how we, as a nation, got so far off track. One of those facts is the collusion between International Bankers, Monopoly Capitalists and Fabian Socialist Edward Mandell House.

This collusion resulted in the unconstitutional privatizing of our monetary system, under the guise of the Federal Reserve. The dangerous nature of the Federal Reserve is best summed up by the patriarch of one International Banking family:

"Give me control of a nation's money and I care not who makes the laws." - Mayer Amschel Rothschild.

The importance of "Philip Dru: Adminstrator" is the insight into the mindset of those who believe in the New World Order, once denied, now freely discussed.

It is a testament to the dangerously effective "gradualist" subversion that America has been subjected to over the last 100 years. The "incremental" Socialism promoted by the Fabian Society since 1884...a little more each generation, leading us to their goal:

"The American people will never knowingly adopt socialism, but under the name of liberalism they will adopt every fragment of the socialist program until one day America will be a socialist nation without ever knowing how it happened."
- Norman Thomas, American socialist

"Make haste slowly" - Fabian Society Maxim.

Philip Dru: Administrator can be read, FREE, at:
http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/etext04/8phlp10h.htm

After hearing and reading a number of astonishing things about this book, I had to give it a read. What I found was not exactly what I expected. While some sources have described the Dru character as a "sinister dictator", the truth is not quite so interesting. The book itself is nowhere near as interesting.

Upon opening the book to the table of contents, one can't help but take notice of the number of chapters in this book. There are 53 chapters in just 173 pages! For those of you who don't have a math minor, that's a little over 3 pages per chapter. And for some reason, many of the chapters are explicit continuations of the chapter before. What was the point of this? Why not keep the two chapters a single chapter?
Needless to say, the writing here is atrocious. The plot is paper-thin, the characters don't develop one iota, and a romance sub-plot rears its ugly head on the last two pages of the book! How was this book published? Why was it put into print? Therein lies the intrigue.

While it was anonymously written at the time, it is today well-known that the author of this book was Colonel Edward Mandell House (he gives a little hint in the text when two characters meet at Mandell House [yeesh!]), who was the virtual co-president of the United States with Woodrow Wilson. Wilson admitted time and again that House was his "alter ego", even to the point that House was given accomodations in the White House. Why is all this important?

Philip Dru leads a revolution against the United States government. Not a bad thing in and of itself, if the reasons had been more compelling. What happens in the aftermath, however, brings shudders to students of history. Philip Dru becomes dictator of the United States, without too much reservation. He tosses out the national constitution, as well as the state constitutions, and has them rewritten. He institutes a graduated income tax (which did not exist at that time in the U.S. because it was ruled unconstitutional; however, with the "ratification" of the 16th amendment just a year or two after the publication of this book, we got one for the first time and have lived under it ever since), forces popular election of senators, nationalizes industry, and reorganizes the entire government at his whim. And Dru is definitely portrayed as the friendly protagonist. If the First Lady were to write a book calling for revolution, abolition of the constitution, and a unitary dictator, would we worry? I sure hope so.

But more worrisome is the fact that all of these thing eventually did come to pass in this country. (Sure, the constitution wasn't abolished and rewritten. However, the New Deal Supremee Court made rulings that effectively gave Congress carte-blanche to pass ANY law it felt like, even those that explicitly violate the constitution [see USA PATRIOT Act]). Was House prescient? Did he simply see the tides of popular opinion swarming over the masses? Or was he simply one of the many manipulating the domestic policy of our republic behind the scenes?

The structure and execution of this book are amateurish at best, more likened to the writing of a 10th grader than any kind of real author. Perhaps that is the point. This book was clearly aimed at the unwashed masses. Every piece of dialog in this book espouses the benefits of socialism and evil of capitalism. But this effort is so transparent that it leaves us with nothing of any literary merit, and in its place only political ramblings of a clear Fabian socialist. These ramblings, of course, entail bringing up relevant issues and injustices (female suffrage, corporate exploitation) and packaging them with solutions that involve only the addition and centralization of power in the federal government. While those who educate themselves will see this work for what it is, the many people who read this book (not today, since people don't read, but back then there were probably more than a few) would end up buying into bad solutions for exaggerated problems.

There is absolutely no reason to buy this book. The price simply doesn't justify it. A reader will gain no enjoyment from it. This book only redeems itself in its historical context: it was written by a man who pushed Woodrow Wilson to sign the Federal Reserve Act, which destroyed our economy and continues to devalue our money to this day; to lead us into World War I, despite his campaign promises not to (the Lusitania was carrying English munitions and was a valid military target); and to attempt to sacrifice the sovereignty of our nation to a world governing body in the League of Nations, which our Congress rightly rejected.

This book as a work of fiction is weak, and not good in any sense. If I were to rate it as fiction 1 star would be generous.
The author himself admitted that he released it without refining it because he felt that he had more pressing needs in politics.
"In regard to Philip Dru, I want to say that there are some things in it I wrote hastily and in which I do not concur, but most of it I stand upon as being both my ethical and political faith."- Edward House, 1916.

The most valuable material in this book is found in the Appendices.
Those materials came from House's personal papers.

The Foreword sets out to illustrate the importance of PHILIP DRU:ADMINISTRATOR as insight into politics because of the author and his influence on Woodrow Wilson. He was an unofficial adviser for most of Wilson's administration and was very instrumental in Wilson's presidential campaign.

The fundamental importance of this book is historical and political.
Some of the positions that Dru held in the book were later supported by Wilson. Of Edward Mandell House, Woodrow Wilson said this- "Mr. House is my second personality. He is my independent self. His thoughts and mine are one. I would do just as he suggested..If any one thinks he is reflecting my opinion by whatever action he takes, they are welcome to the conclusion." Quote from page 257.
The relevance of the book is based on the author and the influence that he had on American politics and one particular president. Due to their close friendship, I would think it highly likely that Wilson read the book.

If you're looking for good,well written political fiction this book is not likely to satisfy you.

Yes, as the book's back cover says, this book is largely forgotten today. Maybe for good reason. It is a shrill, turgid and polemical screed about doing over the American government. The hero, if that term might be used, overthrows the government in a putsch. He then institutes a radical restructuring of American society, along the lines of a socialist fantasy.

The book was written in 1912 and thus predates the rise of Lenin, Mussolini and Hitler. Yet it carries within itself the echoes of those fanaticisms. If you are an American and actually want to read this miserable screed, do so and be grateful that it remained a dark fiction.

Phillip Dru is a poor excuse of a novel, and as such I give it negative one star out of a possibility of 5 stars. Having said that I would encourage every American to read this trash. Why? Because the man who wrote it is Edward Mandell House chief of staff under President Woodrow Wilson and a major political advisor to FDR. This book originally writen in 1911 outlines many of the events that transpired in the Wilson administration and FDR's "New Deal." What might be even more frightening is that House actually reveals how he manipulated the entire system. As the back cover of my copy states, "It has been said that House 'copyrighted fascism' before Mussolini took power in Italy. House was not adverse to the allegation, writing in 1935 that he had 'anticipated Mussolini by several years.'"

In this book House writes of a supposed "benevolent dictator" in Phillip Dru. As Dru over throws the American Government he implements a graduated income tax (The IRS), forms a "League of Nations" (which Wilson attempted a few years after Dru was written but wasn't accepted until it was renamed the United Nations years after Wilson was out of office. Again the book is written in 1911.), sets up a system very much like social security, and eventually conquers Mexico and brings all the Latino countries together into one government (almost like what were seeing with all the NAFTA's, Gatt's, and North American Union talk). After completing House's painful attempt at fiction one can't help but to conclude that for the most part he's been successful. House has slowly tricked the American People into believing that fascism is capitalism. House also established (created) a group called the Council on Foreign Relations. How is this significant? Well this small group has its members in all the important places in government and media (You know like all the top media are members, and yes FOX news big wig Rupert Murdock is a CFR member). Lastly, don't forget that the end game of House's desires is world goverment. Now, I ask you how important is this book?

Don't believe me? Here are some quotes I and a friend of mine have taken from the book.

Chapter VI

" This feeling will grow, it is growing, and when it comes to full frution, the world will find but little difficulty in attaining a certain measure of altruism. I agree with you that this much to be desired state of society cannot be altogether reached by laws, however drastic. Socialism as dreamed of by Karl Marx cannot be entirely brought about by a comprehensive system of state ownership and by the leveling of wealth. If that were done without a spiritual leavening, the result would be largely as you suggest."

The following quotes I pulled from the internet (to save time). I have verified their accuracy to the text. Much thanks to Stephen T. McCarthy for allowing me to use them.

Chapter XII - "Selwyn Seeks A Candidate"
Selwyn then began carefully scrutinizing such public men in the States known as presidential cradles, as seemed to him eligible. By a process of elimination he centered upon two that appeared desirable.

One was James R. Rockland, recently elected Governor of a State of the Middle West. The man had many of the earmarks of a demagogue, which Selwyn readily recognized, and he therefore concluded to try him first.
. . .
Selwyn settled back in his chair, nodding his approval and telling himself that he would not need to seek further for his candidate.

At Rockland's earnest solicitation he remained over another day. The Governor gave him copies of his speeches and messages, so that he could assure himself that there was no serious flaw in his public record.

Selwyn cautioned him about changing his attitude too suddenly. "Go on, Rockland, as you have done in the past. It will not do to see the light too quickly. You have the progressives with you now, keep them and I will let the conservatives know that you think straight and may be trusted.

"We must consult frequently together," he continued, "but cautiously. There is no need for anyone to know that we are working together harmoniously. I may even get some of the conservative papers to attack you judiciously. It will not harm you. But, above all, do nothing of importance without consulting me.

"I am committing the party and the Nation to you, and my responsibility is a heavy one, and I owe it to them that no mistakes are made."

"You may trust me, Senator," said Rockland. "I understand perfectly."

Chapter XIV - "The Making Of A President"
Selwyn now devoted himself to the making of enough conservative senators to control comfortably that body. The task was not difficult to a man of his sagacity with all the money he could spend.
. . .
It was a fascinating game to Selwyn. It appealed to his intellectual side far more than it did to his avarice. He wanted to govern the Nation with an absolute hand, and yet not be known as the directing power.
. . .
In the meantime his senators were being elected, the Rockland sentiment was steadily growing and his nomination was finally brought about by the progressives fighting vigorously for him and the conservatives yielding a reluctant consent. It was done so adroitly that Rockland would have been fooled himself, had not Selwyn informed him in advance of each move as it was made.

House was a mastermind , knew how to pull stings, and establish strong connections. With that said, the book is entertaining!!

Phillip Dru is a poor excuse of a novel, and as such I give it negative one star out of a possibility of 5 stars. Having said that I would encourage every American to read this trash. Why? Because the man who wrote it is Edward Mandell House chief of staff under President Woodrow Wilson and a major political advisor to FDR. This book originally writen in 1911 outlines many of the events that transpired in the Wilson administration and FDR's "New Deal." What might be even more frightening is that House actually reveals how he manipulated the entire system. As the back cover of my copy states, "It has been said that House 'copyrighted fascism' before Mussolini took power in Italy. House was not adverse to the allegation, writing in 1935 that he had 'anticipated Mussolini by several years.'"

In this book House writes of a supposed "benevolent dictator" in Phillip Dru. As Dru over throws the American Government he implements a graduated income tax (The IRS), forms a "League of Nations" (which Wilson attempted a few years after Dru was written but wasn't accepted until it was renamed the United Nations years after Wilson was out of office. Again the book is written in 1911.), sets up a system very much like social security, and eventually conquers Mexico and brings all the Latino countries together into one government (almost like what were seeing with all the NAFTA's, Gatt's, and North American Union talk). After completing House's painful attempt at fiction one can't help but to conclude that for the most part he's been successful. House has slowly tricked the American People into believing that fascism is capitalism. House also established (created) a group called the Council on Foreign Relations. How is this significant? Well this small group has its members in all the important places in government and media (You know like all the top media are members, and yes FOX news big wig Rupert Murdock is a CFR member). Lastly, don't forget that the end game of House's desires is world goverment. Now, I ask you how important is this book?

Don't believe me? Here are some quotes I and a friend of mine have taken from the book.

Chapter VI

" This feeling will grow, it is growing, and when it comes to full frution, the world will find but little difficulty in attaining a certain measure of altruism. I agree with you that this much to be desired state of society cannot be altogether reached by laws, however drastic. Socialism as dreamed of by Karl Marx cannot be entirely brought about by a comprehensive system of state ownership and by the leveling of wealth. If that were done without a spiritual leavening, the result would be largely as you suggest."

I must thank Stephen T. McCarthy for typing the following quotes and allowing me to use them here. Thus, saving me some time in typing them out. Accuracy has been verified.

Chapter XII - "Selwyn Seeks A Candidate"
Selwyn then began carefully scrutinizing such public men in the States known as presidential cradles, as seemed to him eligible. By a process of elimination he centered upon two that appeared desirable.

One was James R. Rockland, recently elected Governor of a State of the Middle West. The man had many of the earmarks of a demagogue, which Selwyn readily recognized, and he therefore concluded to try him first.
. . .
Selwyn settled back in his chair, nodding his approval and telling himself that he would not need to seek further for his candidate.

At Rockland's earnest solicitation he remained over another day. The Governor gave him copies of his speeches and messages, so that he could assure himself that there was no serious flaw in his public record.

Selwyn cautioned him about changing his attitude too suddenly. "Go on, Rockland, as you have done in the past. It will not do to see the light too quickly. You have the progressives with you now, keep them and I will let the conservatives know that you think straight and may be trusted.

"We must consult frequently together," he continued, "but cautiously. There is no need for anyone to know that we are working together harmoniously. I may even get some of the conservative papers to attack you judiciously. It will not harm you. But, above all, do nothing of importance without consulting me.

"I am committing the party and the Nation to you, and my responsibility is a heavy one, and I owe it to them that no mistakes are made."

"You may trust me, Senator," said Rockland. "I understand perfectly."

Chapter XIV - "The Making Of A President"
Selwyn now devoted himself to the making of enough conservative senators to control comfortably that body. The task was not difficult to a man of his sagacity with all the money he could spend.
. . .
It was a fascinating game to Selwyn. It appealed to his intellectual side far more than it did to his avarice. He wanted to govern the Nation with an absolute hand, and yet not be known as the directing power.
. . .
In the meantime his senators were being elected, the Rockland sentiment was steadily growing and his nomination was finally brought about by the progressives fighting vigorously for him and the conservatives yielding a reluctant consent. It was done so adroitly that Rockland would have been fooled himself, had not Selwyn informed him in advance of each move as it was made.

Interest in this book in spurred by the power that 'Colonel' House came to have while working for President Wilson and the ideas it expressed. The book is at best mediocre in the way it is written, but the starry-eyed idealism expressed is interesting. The idea of a man assuming the leadership of America and then stepping down after correcting the course that the nation is taking and receding into history is fanciful, if not naive, and not the trend shown by most 20th Century dictators (or any other century for that matter). It sounds like an updated story of a Roman general called to duty from his farm to restore the government and then retires back to his farm instead of accepting absolute authority. It is the rarest of men with extreme ability that the author tries to portray as the book's hero, that does not seek personal greatness but has it thrust upon them, and freely gives the power up for the future of society.

The socialist ideas are expressed clearly and the author's 'spread the wealth' (or 'share the wealth') ideal is even heard today. Some of the many solutions to societal ills that are suggested have been attempted in isolation since that time and failed but it is interesting to see an early expression of them (remember this book was published before World War I and before the takeover of Russia by the Communists).

The book's discussion about the behind the scenes political power broker continues to be seen even more so today. This book is a good introduction to power politics of a disconnected and corrupted "representative" government and later a fanciful benevolent dictatorship. The discussion of international politics is interesting in the arrogance of a few nations in determining the destiny of weaker countries by giving some nation 'sphere of influence' over them - something that helped contribute to Hitler's rise to power via negotiation with inept political leaders as opposed to combat.

This book is of interest due to the insight it provides about how one apparently start-eyed political operative thought in the early 20th century, and this man helped form the League of Nations and direct early American policy in the 20th Century.

If you find a lot of the current actions in Washington shocking and out of control then you haven't read the right history. This is a very dull and boring book and not particularly well written, however it is an eye opening book of insight.

The man that wrote the book was an adviser and friend of FDR and right hand man to Woodrow Wilson. If you want to understand the mind of a Progressive, otherwords read modern day Liberal then you need to read this book.

Always look to the past to understand your future. If you didn't know that Progressive believe that they are smarter than you and the free markets then this book will go a long way to explaining exactly what and how they think and what drives them and their ideologies.