Crisis and Command

Crisis and Command examines the expansion of presidential power throughout American history during times of national emergency. The book analyzes key decisions made by presidents from George Washington through George W. Bush, focusing on their use of executive authority during wartime and other crises. John Yoo draws on historical records, legal documents, and constitutional interpretation to trace the evolution of executive power in the United States. The analysis covers watershed moments including the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the War on Terror, detailing how different commanders-in-chief interpreted and exercised their authority. The work presents case studies of specific presidential actions and their constitutional implications, from Lincoln's suspension of habeas corpus to Roosevelt's internment of Japanese Americans. The text incorporates primary sources and contemporary scholarship to examine the legal and political debates surrounding these decisions. The book contributes to ongoing discussions about the balance between national security and constitutional limits on executive power. Through its historical analysis, it raises fundamental questions about presidential authority and democratic governance during times of crisis.

Readers note this book presents a historical analysis of presidential power during wartime and emergencies. Many reviewers appreciate the detailed constitutional scholarship and examination of how different presidents handled crises, with multiple readers highlighting the analysis of Lincoln and FDR's actions. Liked: - Clear writing style and organization - Thorough research and citations - Balance of legal theory and historical examples Disliked: - Some readers found it too defensive of expanded executive power - Critics say it selectively uses historical examples to support predetermined views - Several note potential bias given author's role in Bush administration Ratings: Amazon: 4.1/5 (42 reviews) Goodreads: 3.7/5 (47 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Whether you agree with Yoo's conclusions or not, the historical research provides valuable context for current debates about presidential authority" - Amazon reviewer Multiple readers mentioned the book works better as a historical study than as a legal argument for expanded powers.

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🔷 John Yoo served as deputy assistant attorney general in the U.S. Department of Justice from 2001-2003, where he authored controversial legal memos about enhanced interrogation techniques and presidential powers during wartime. 🔷 The book examines how U.S. presidents throughout history have interpreted and expanded their constitutional powers during times of national crisis, from George Washington through George W. Bush. 🔷 Crisis and Command was published in 2011 amid intense debate over executive power in the post-9/11 era, particularly regarding surveillance programs and military tribunals. 🔷 The author argues that the Constitution's framers intentionally created a strong executive branch with flexibility to respond to emergencies, contrary to critics who view expanded presidential powers as constitutional overreach. 🔷 Several chapters focus on lesser-known presidential actions during crises, including John Adams' handling of the Quasi-War with France and Thomas Jefferson's response to the Barbary Pirates.