James Monroe

A Life

By: Tim McGrath

Narrated by: Arthur Morey

The extraordinary life of James Monroe: Soldier, senator, diplomat, and the last Founding Father to hold the presidency, a man who helped transform 13 colonies into a vibrant and mighty republic.

“A first-rate account of a remarkable life.” (Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Soul of America)

Monroe lived a life defined by revolutions. From the battlefields of the War for Independence, to his ambassadorship in Paris in the days of the guillotine, to his own role in the creation of Congress's partisan divide, he was a man who embodied the restless spirit of the age. He was never one to back down from a fight, whether it be with Alexander Hamilton, with whom he nearly engaged in a duel (prevented, ironically, by Aaron Burr), or George Washington, his hero turned political opponent.

This magnificent new biography vividly recreates the epic sweep of Monroe's life: His near-death wounding at Trenton and a brutal winter at Valley Forge; his pivotal negotiations with France over the Louisiana Purchase; his deep, complex friendships with Thomas Jefferson and James Madison; his valiant leadership when the British ransacked the nation's capital and burned down the Executive Mansion; and Monroe's lifelong struggle to reckon with his own complicity in slavery. Elected the fifth president of the United States in 1816, this fiercest of partisans sought to bridge divisions and sow unity, calming turbulent political seas and inheriting Washington's mantle of placing country above party. Over his two terms, Monroe transformed the nation, strengthening American power both at home and abroad.

Critically-acclaimed author Tim McGrath has consulted an extensive array of primary sources, many rarely seen since Monroe's own time, to conjure up this fascinating portrait of an essential American statesman and president.

©2020 Tim McGrath (P)2020 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"This is a welcome and long-overdue portrait of an essential American. Soldier, diplomat, and president, James Monroe was a vital figure in the early Republic, and Tim McGrath has given us a first-rate account of a remarkable life." (Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power and American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House)

"As Tim McGrath deftly demonstrates in this nimbly written and meticulously researched biography, there is much more to James Monroe than the famous doctrine that bears his name. This is the captivating story of a president who after gaining his political reputation amid the partisan battles of the early republic, did his best to bring a nation together. That Monroe was only partially successful makes his presidency all the more relevant to our own contentious times. Highly recommended." (Nathaniel Philbrick, New York Times best-selling author of Mayflower and In the Heart of the Sea)

"Tim McGrath’s James Monroe fills out a luminous portrait of the most underappreciated of our Founders. In this comprehensive new biography, McGrath colorfully portrays the man whose ambition transformed the shape and character of our nation. Monroe will be underappreciated no more." (Joel Richard Paul, author of Without Precedent: Chief Justice John Marshall and His Times)

An Historical Tome for The Ages

This is an historical account for the in-depth reader. Not a casual walk in the park type of volume - though the satisfaction drawn from the subject's presentation is proportionate.

Outstanding!

Outstanding! The greatest President in US history, United the 2 party system to bring peace and prosperity to our great country.

Fitting

This is a fitting transition of American history between the founders and turbulent pre-civil war United States. Rising partisanship, sensitive egos, and confusion of national and personal interests shows that throughout our history, government is a human organization.

Interesting Story

I had not known much concerning our fifth President including his challenges as a farmer and extensive experience in Europe. A lot of interesting details.

We are still arguing about the same stuff

I liked the detail in the book and insights into his family life. The money problem were of interest.

Outstanding

Such a great book detailing one of the forgotten founders of our country. From his heroism during the revolution to his diplomatic resolves, it shows just how much this man did for our country for very little money.

incredible all around

I really love this book as it sees everything. circumspectly, lays it out in very clean sequence, and is read by a great voiceover actor. fantastic work, and has opened my eyes to how important James Monroe was, despite all of his faults common in his era.

The Character of the Man & his Innovation for the Country

I particularly liked the inclusion of Monroe Family life-made real; 2. The description of his ongoing consultations with the other founding fathers: 3 the groundwork he laid for abolition of slavery, the need for a better lot for the indigenous people & his demands for improved infrastructure. So much rings true today!!!

Perfectly detailed and surprising story

When I started this biography, I did not expect to find the story of James Monroe’s life and presidency to compete with those of his predecessor presidents. But I was pleased to find a compelling story of a president more overlooked than remembered. The writing itself had the perfect degree of detail, not getting too bogged down in minutia but at the same time painting a thorough picture of the man. I have a new found appreciation for President Monroe and the doctrine that bears his name. Well worth the listen.

Great book and insight into James Monroe.

I found to book fascinating and discovered thing about my cousin. The public service focus and forward thinking insights helped me better understand my ancestors. Great, well written and produced book.