Customer Reviews

What Color is a Conservative?

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Julius Caesar Watts, Jr. recently became the chairman of an organization of which I am a member; since I only knew of him as an outstanding wishbone quarterback from the Barry Switzer glory years at the University of Oklahoma and as the first black member of the Republican Congressional leadership, I figured that reading his autobigraphy was the best way to begin to learn about the man. My hopes were tempered by my usual skepticism concerning books by and about politicians because of the agenda and vanity of the writers, but I was encouraged by the fact that J.C.'s book was published after he had announced his retirement from Congress rather than as a stepping stone to higher office. This book exceeded all my expectaions. You learn about J.C. - his family, his upbringing, his values, and the crucial experiences in the formation of his character and outlook on life. The story is told in a straightforward yet very interesting manner, by the end of the book I had developed a real understanding of what makes J.C. "tick". Usually, I have trouble staying interested in this type of book because they are either boring, BS, or both. This was an easy read, several times when I had planned to only read a single chapter I found myself continuing due to my fascination with the story.

The other surprising aspect of the book is that the subject of race does not dominate every discussion; obviously it is one one the key formative factors in J.C.'s life and is dealt with openly, as are the subjects both of religion and the role of faith in his life and also politics and the impact of him being the first black southern Republican Congressman since the reconstruction era. This story begins with J.C. as a boy growing up during the struggle to end segregation; he was one of two blacks to integrate his town's all white elementary school. He later faced the pressure of becoming the first black quarteback for OU. His parents "never gave [him] an excuse to fail", rather he learned the ethic of hard work from his father Buddy who had grown up during the depression with the added burden of being black. He also had the love and discipline of his mother Helen, the "sheltering oak" in his life who counterbalanced "the strong wind" of his energetic and ambitious father. In addition, he learned from the example of his Uncle Wade, who overcame the prejudice and animosity of the Grand Wizard of the Klu Klux Klan so completely that this former KKK member actually spoke in tribute at Wade's funeral.

In summary, this is an inspiring story which provides the insights necessary to understand a remarkable man, but it is also the story of America. It is about personal responsibilty, hope, faith, belief in our power to overcome obstacles (even when the mountain is as high as our past history of racial injustice) and create a better tomorrow for future generations. As he explains, J.C. Watts is an American of African descent who has chosen not to let his race either deter or define him; as such he has confounded not only the proponents of victimhood who view him as a "traitor" to their cause but also those Republicans who had hoped that he would become the "black spokesman" for their party. While his experiences inform his choices and viewpoint, as he often says - most issues should not be about the black or white view, but about the facts and your goals.

In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., J.C. Watts Jr. is clearly delineated by "the content of his character" rather than the color of his skin. He is living proof of the view espoused by John McWhorter in AUTHENTICALLY BLACK (Amazon review 3/20/03) that while blacks undoubtedly often still face additional hurdles on the road to success, that the biggest stumbling block to their success today is the culture of victimhood that denies the opportunities that do exist and creates a feeling of self pity rather than self worth.

When I picked up this book I had intentions of learning about how J.C. dealt with politics in his life. After reading it I was pleasantly surprised about how in-depth the book goes into his life in general, not just politics. He discusses in great length, what it was like for him to grow up in Oklahoma, and how the views of his parents have molded him into who he is today. Some people might disagree with a lot of his political stances, but it is hard to disagree with the merit at which he chose those stances. His views are views that many American's share, whether or not many believe it. For those who like sports, his descriptions of sport analogies, and how they tie into life, should be adequate enough to get you to understand his political views. For those who perfer a pure political book this may not be for them. In retrospect, he could have used the title Leadership in his book just as well as Conservative. I think that the title of 'What Color is a Conservative' is not quite enough, as this book touches on much more then politics, which I think is the basis of our general definition of Conservative when we discuss those who hold a political office. It is a great book, and a shame that the people of the U.S. will lose a great Congressional member. But no matter what office he holds, his legacy will be based upon his ability to lead, which nobody who reads this book should question.

J.C. Watts is a true American hero - in every sense of the word. From humble beginnings in rural Oklahoma to star Sooner QB to luminary Congressman, Watts recounts his life in expert fashion to make for an enthrallingly good read. Watts has always been a leader grounded in good faith and family values - a true original when in comes to Washington, D.C. demagoguery. And that's exactly what has endeared him to his many fans and supporters - and conversely that's what also has angered many outside - and within - the Republican pary. Watts was never known to back down from a good fight. He is willing to take a principled stand for what he believes in and resists the coercive influence to always vote in deference to party leadership.

As Watts explains, character-building experiences have helped him to see beyond political orthodoxy and the rigid constraints of group identity to make him the extraordinary leader that he is today. He is willing to embrace new models to solve old problems - unlike most politicians. Watts has always been a man of God, resiliency, resolve, unwavering principle, and old-fashioned family values. He is sorely missed in Washington as there are few true leaders like him remaining.

"No man is free who is not master of himself."

This is one of the most enjoyable books I've read in a decade. First, it is very nicely written. Second, the story is based on basic, wholesome values. And third, it presents a fresh view of the Black experience. It left me eager to learn more about Mr. Watts. As his life unfolds further, I'll hope for a sequel.

This book changed my life and allowed me the courage to stand up for what I REALLY believe, despite popular opinion. JC Watts, Jr. is hugely courageous and open the doors for many conservative african americans who have elected to reject "victimization," and embrace true independence through education, hard-work, faith, and family.

J. C. Watts' book can be read on two levels. On the one hand, it is an inspirational story of a boy from a small town who grew up to achieve the American Dream. On the other, it is a manifesto which boldly describes how a "compassionate conservative" approach to solving problems can make America "a better place."

Watts, who is black, grew up in a rural community in eastern Oklahoma and came of age before racial segregation and Jim Crow policies had completely died out. Although he faced formidable obstacles to success, he found inspiration from his parents, his coach, the legendary Barry Switzer, and others who molded his character and instilled in him the virtues of faith, personal responsibility, hard work, and tenacity. Armed with these virtues, Watts found success on the football field, where he become a star quarterback for the University of Oklahoma, and on Capitol Hill, where he quickly gained a reputation as a mover and shaker after his election to Congress. Throughout his book, Watts emphasizes his formula for success: focusing on an objective, acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve that objective, and maintaining the right mental attitude.

Watts describes how his conservative beliefs are a natural outgrowth of the virtues and values in which he had come to believe and from his growing realization that the Welfare State has been a failure. His views appear to fall into the school of thought which Ronald Reagan dubbed "the Creative Society" in 1967, and which George W. Bush later rechristened "Compassionate Conservatism." He believes that the federal government's approach to solving domestic problems should be to set an agenda for action and then remain in the background while private and faith-based organizations do most of the work aimed at carrying out the agenda. This approach, argues Watts, can be effective in dealing with issues ranging from social security reform to pollution abatement. Accordingly, Watts calls for removing government restrictions on such organizations so they can act effectively.

Although he is a committed conservative, Watts remains an independent thinker, and he recounts the occasions in which he has crossed swords with his fellow Republicans and conservatives.

Whether or not readers agree, Watts' arguments should inspire them to think "out of the box" and consider new approaches to solving social problems. In any case, readers should find his life story to be inspirational.

I recently read "What Color is a Conservative". Although, J. C. Watts was not an unknown to me. I must confess that I did it with a little bit of uncertainty. Well, the gamble was worth it!

This book may never receive the acclaim it deserves. It is not a spy story or a scandal. But, if you want to spend a few hours learning about America and yourself, read it. It is worth your time!

Though I am sowewhat older, a different race, and from another area of the country, J. C. Watts paints a picture that I have seen; in fact, lived through. He has a gift of helping you see another's perspective with pure honesty and truth in a way that helps you understand, perhaps unlike ever before.

Some may be turned off by his frequent use of football analogies. But, most will not, because sports is not the issue. It is just a way to convey how hard work, determination and team work has worked in America and always will.

Though I was born uder different circumstances, J. C. Watts speaks for me on many issues. His comments transcend race and politics and gets to the essence of what makes America great!

I recommend this book to everyone who wants to be challenged and wants to grow. If you ever yearned to be a part of the solution, read this book. It will not tell you how. But, it will tell you why.

The power of America truly rests in each of us. J. C. Watts inspires us at a time when our country truly needs it!

The election of a politically unknown African American as a Republican representative from Oklahoma was news. The story of how he arrived there is as fascinating. The book is so refreshing in that Watts recounts both his successes and his failure - all the experiences of a teenager are there.

The issue of race did not trap Watts into forgetting he was a man who could think for himself. The book is fully of amusing stories.

Even those who do not share his views will find this a delightful reading experience. Borrow a copy from the library or better yet, secure your own.

As a Black Man, I am truly honored that a Black Man is not afraid to adhere to his morals. Once, I started to read this book, I could not put it down. It is an excellent book. I think if some Black people would read this book, the United States would be a greater country than it already is.

I did not know what to expect when I picked up this book, but found it was hard to put down. I was very pleased with what I found. Watts begins the book with a background of his life growing up in Oklahoma . The rest of the book flows smoothly as he chronologically describes his college days, his marriage, professional football career, and his political years. He describes certain events in his life that led him to his conservative views. I would encourage anyone to read this book, as it causes the reader to reflect upon their own childhood and politcal views.