The book 'In the Garden of Beasts' by Erik Larson provides a detailed account of William E. Dodd's time as the U.S. ambassador to Germany in the 1930s. The reviewer finds the book insightful, highlighting Dodd's ineffectiveness as a diplomat and the complex political landscape of the time. The narrative is enriched by personal anecdotes and historical context, offering a nuanced view of the period.
The book 'In the Garden of Beasts' by Erik Larson is a compelling exploration of William E. Dodd's tenure as the U.S. ambassador to Germany from 1933 to 1934. The reviewer appreciates the book's depth, noting how it portrays Dodd's struggles and the broader political climate of the time. Dodd, a historian with no diplomatic experience, was ill-prepared for the role and often found himself outmaneuvered by the Nazi regime. His personal biases and lack of political acumen made him an ineffective ambassador, and his family's antics further complicated his position. The book provides a vivid backdrop of Berlin in the 1930s, with the Tiergarten serving as a central location for many key events. The reviewer finds the narrative engaging and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights into a pivotal period in history.
Quick quotes
The Tiergarten was Berlin’s backyard, and it was not unusual to see government officials, ambassadors, and everyday people strolling or riding along the paths.
Dodd was so clueless that he did not understand that his vague attempts to deal with what he viewed as the more “moderate” Nazis in the German government were undermining any help he could provide the victims of that regime, particularly German Jews.
As a diplomat, Ambassador Dodd showed only mushy weakness when dealing with the Nazi regime.