Favorite Biographies?

Yes, it was so very prophetic. I read the book when it was first published to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Russian Revolution. I read and referenced it so many times that it fell apart, so I bought a new one.

I had the pleasure of meeting Robert Massie at a lecture he gave here in Cincinnati, It was part of the Nicholas and Alexandra exhibit that was touring the country. The most moving item at the exhibit was Alexandra's diary for 1918 - it was opened on the page where she made her last entry. So sad.

I'm huge Russian history buff and was so excited when I was able to visit St Petersburg in 2004 and visit the Alexander Palace.

Also reading, based upon its mention in an interview between Gen. Petreus & Chernow relating to the Grant biography, 'Grant Takes Command', by Bruce Catton - which goes into minute detail the events surrounding Grant following his massive transformative victory at Vicksburg going forward, thru Chattanooga and onto taking command of the entire Army in the final years of the war.

Grant is such a fantastic subject of study - a thoroughly fascinating character, in some respects seemingly ordinary, in most important respects absolutely extraordinary. His stunning rise from failure & obscurity within a year or two to national leadership, saving the union & setting the stage for the first cut at equality for Blacks, a distinguished career as a two-term president, elected twice by wide margins.

The Southern apologists did a number on his historical reputation. That is presently being rehabilitated. His administration initiated a merit-based civil service, stamped out the KKK completely (the current version dates from the 1920s), oversaw the massive infrastructure development of the interior. There was corruption, but a lot of it is a bad rap, selective criticism. He was personally incorruptible.

Woah. Interesting. Especially that last part. Thanks!

That's the book in the link, and I read it.

Have not listened to the phone call, will check that out - thanks.