Master of the Senate is a comprehensive and meticulously researched biography that delves into Lyndon B. Johnson's political career. The book highlights Johnson's strategic prowess and his ability to navigate the complex landscape of the Senate, but it also critiques his methods and the moral compromises he made.
Master of the Senate is the third volume in Robert A. Caro's monumental biography of Lyndon B. Johnson. This book focuses on Johnson's time in the Senate, where he became a master of legislative maneuvering and power brokering. Caro's extensive research and detailed narrative provide a deep understanding of Johnson's political genius, but also reveal the darker aspects of his career. They admired Johnson's ability to get things done and his deep knowledge of the legislative process, but they also found his methods often morally questionable. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in American politics and the inner workings of the Senate. However, its length and detailed focus may not appeal to casual readers.
Quick quotes
The Senate was his domain, and he ruled it with an iron fist
Johnson's genius was in understanding the Senate's rules and exploiting them to his advantage
Power is where power goes.