Robert Kennedy and His Times

Robert Kennedy and His Times chronicles the life and political career of Robert F. Kennedy, from his early years through his time as Attorney General and Senator. The biography draws on personal papers, interviews, and Schlesinger's direct access to the Kennedy family during his years as a friend and advisor. The narrative follows Kennedy's evolution from campaign manager for his brother John F. Kennedy to his own emergence as a national political figure. Schlesinger documents RFK's work on critical issues including civil rights, organized crime, and the Cuban Missile Crisis, while also examining his key relationships with family members, political allies, and opponents. The book places Kennedy's story within the broader context of 1950s and 1960s America, tracking the major social movements and political changes of the era. Through extensive research and firsthand accounts, Schlesinger reconstructs the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the Kennedy administration and the Democratic Party during this period. This biography explores themes of personal transformation, public service, and the intersection of idealism with political reality. The portrait that emerges is one of a complex figure whose political philosophy and worldview underwent significant changes during his years in public life.

Readers describe this biography as comprehensive and well-researched, backed by Schlesinger's personal access to RFK and the Kennedy family archives. Many note the detailed coverage of Kennedy's evolution from hardline anti-Communist to champion of progressive causes. Positives: - Depth of research and primary sources - Insight into RFK's personal transformation and character - Coverage of lesser-known political battles and relationships Negatives: - Length (1000+ pages) feels excessive to some readers - Schlesinger's close relationship with Kennedy family creates potential bias - Some sections on policy minutiae drag Several readers point out that Schlesinger glosses over Kennedy family controversies and RFK's early work with McCarthy. One reader notes: "The author's friendship with his subject sometimes prevents a more critical examination." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (180+ ratings) Most negative reviews focus on length rather than content. The biography remains in print after 40+ years.

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Brothers: The Hidden History of the Kennedy Years by David Talbot The book examines the relationship between JFK and RFK, focusing on their shared vision and Robert's quest to uncover the truth about his brother's assassination.

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🔖 Author Arthur Schlesinger Jr. served as a special assistant in John F. Kennedy's White House and was part of RFK's inner circle, giving him unique first-hand insights into the Kennedy family dynamics. 🏛️ The book won the 1979 National Book Award for Biography, cementing its place as one of the definitive works on Robert Kennedy's life. 📚 At over 1000 pages, the biography was so comprehensive that it took Schlesinger five years to complete, drawing from personal interviews, private papers, and previously unreleased government documents. 🗂️ The manuscript reveals that RFK kept a diary during the Cuban Missile Crisis, providing crucial behind-the-scenes details of those thirteen days that weren't public knowledge before the book's publication. 🤝 Robert Kennedy's transformation from hard-line anti-Communist to champion of civil rights and poverty programs is meticulously traced through Schlesinger's access to private correspondence and conversations with those closest to RFK.