Once Upon A Wardrobe Robert Dallek

In his latest book, "Once Upon a Wardrobe: Conversations with FDR and His Inner Circle," Robert Dallek offers an intimate and revealing portrait of one of America's most consequential presidents. Through a series of interviews with FDR's closest confidants, Dallek paints a vivid picture of the man behind the legend.

The Man Behind the Mask

Dallek's interviewees describe a complex and often contradictory figure. On the one hand, FDR was a charming and charismatic leader who inspired millions of Americans. On the other hand, he could also be ruthless and manipulative, willing to do whatever it took to achieve his goals.

One of the most striking things about FDR, according to those who knew him, was his ability to connect with people. He had a natural empathy that allowed him to understand and relate to people from all walks of life. This empathy was a major factor in his success as a politician and a president.

Once Upon a Wardrobe

by Robert Dallek

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	311 pages

FREE

However, FDR also had a dark side. He could be sarcastic and bitter, and he was often driven by a ruthless ambition. He was also known to be secretive and manipulative, and he was not always honest with those around him.

FDR's Inner Circle

Dallek's interviews provide a fascinating glimpse into FDR's inner circle. These were the men and women who were closest to the president, and they played a major role in shaping his policies and his legacy.

One of the most important members of FDR's inner circle was his wife, Eleanor. Eleanor was a strong and independent woman who played a major role in her husband's presidency. She was his closest advisor and confidante, and she often helped him to make important decisions.

Another important member of FDR's inner circle was his Secretary of State, Cordell Hull. Hull was a skilled diplomat who played a major role in shaping America's foreign policy during the New Deal era. He was also a close personal friend of FDR's, and he remained loyal to the president until the end.

FDR's Legacy

FDR's legacy is complex and controversial. He is widely regarded as one of America's greatest presidents, but he is also criticized for his authoritarian tendencies and his willingness to expand the power of the federal government.

Dallek's book provides a nuanced and balanced assessment of FDR's legacy. He argues that FDR was a flawed but brilliant leader who made a major contribution to American history. However, he also acknowledges that FDR's policies had some negative consequences, and that his legacy is still being debated today.

Robert Dallek's "Once Upon a Wardrobe" is a fascinating and revealing portrait of one of America's most consequential presidents. Through a series of interviews with FDR's closest confidants, Dallek paints a vivid picture of the man behind the legend. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history or in the life and legacy of Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Once Upon a Wardrobe

by Robert Dallek

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	311 pages

FREE