Five Days in Philadelphia

Five Days in Philadelphia chronicles the 1940 Republican National Convention, where dark horse candidate Wendell Willkie secured the presidential nomination against isolationist rivals. The book focuses on the critical period between June 24-28, 1940, as the United States grappled with whether to enter World War II. Peters examines the behind-the-scenes maneuvering and political deals that led to Willkie's surprise nomination, set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany's advances across Europe. The narrative tracks the shifting delegate counts and floor battles while depicting the broader context of American public opinion regarding intervention in the war. The complex relationship between Willkie and incumbent President Franklin D. Roosevelt takes center stage, particularly their shared internationalist outlook despite being electoral opponents. The book details how media figures, political operatives, and ordinary citizens influenced this pivotal moment in American political history. This account illuminates how democratic institutions and political conventions can shape foreign policy and national destiny at crucial historical crossroads. The events of these five days represent a rare instance of American political parties transcending partisan divisions in the face of global threats.

Readers appreciate Peters' detailed research into the 1940 Republican convention and his focus on the backroom dealings that led to Wendell Willkie's nomination. Many note the book reveals lesser-known aspects of this historical moment, like the role of newspaper publishers and grassroots organizing. Common praise centers on Peters' readable writing style and his ability to create tension despite the known outcome. Multiple readers commented on learning new information about Franklin Roosevelt's decision-making process regarding a third term. Critics say the book loses momentum after the convention coverage ends. Some readers found the "five days" premise misleading since significant portions cover events before and after. A few reviews mention repetitive passages and occasional speculation presented as fact. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (219 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (41 ratings) "Fascinating slice of history that reads like a political thriller" - Amazon reviewer "Too much buildup, weak finish" - Goodreads reviewer

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📚 The 1940 Republican Convention in Philadelphia marked the first time in American history that a convention was televised, though only to a very limited local audience. 🗽 Wendell Willkie, the Republican nominee featured in the book, went from being a registered Democrat to winning the Republican nomination in just eleven months. ⚡ Author Charles Peters founded the influential Washington Monthly magazine in 1969 and served as its editor for three decades. 🌟 The book reveals how isolationist sentiment in America was so strong before Pearl Harbor that supporting aid to Britain was considered politically dangerous. 🤝 Despite losing the election, Willkie later became one of President Roosevelt's most important allies in building public support for the Lend-Lease program to aid Britain during WWII.