They Knew They Were Right: The Rise of the Neocons

They Knew They Were Right traces the origins and evolution of neoconservatism from its roots among Jewish intellectuals in New York City to its influence on American foreign policy. The book follows key figures like Irving Kristol, Norman Podhoretz, and their ideological descendants who transformed from liberal activists to prominent conservative thinkers. Heilbrunn examines how this political movement gained momentum through magazines, think tanks, and eventually direct access to presidential administrations. The narrative covers the group's response to major historical events including the Cold War, Vietnam, and the conflicts in Iraq, showing how their worldview and influence shifted over time. The book chronicles internal debates, power struggles, and the complex relationships between neoconservative leaders and the broader Republican establishment. Personal stories and biographical details reveal the human dimension behind the political theories and policy positions. At its core, this is an exploration of how a small group of determined intellectuals can reshape national policy through the power of ideas and conviction. The book raises questions about the role of ideology in foreign policy and the responsibilities that come with political influence.

Readers found this to be a detailed history of neoconservative intellectuals and their influence on American foreign policy. The book traces their evolution from liberal anti-communists to Republican hawks. Liked: - Clear explanations of complex ideological shifts - In-depth biographical details of key figures - Balanced treatment of different viewpoints - Strong historical context pre-9/11 Disliked: - Too much focus on personal relationships/gossip - Lacks deeper analysis of policy impacts - Some readers found the writing style dry - Limited coverage of post-2003 developments One reader noted: "Good for understanding personalities but light on actual policy substance." Another wrote: "Helpful background on the movement's Jewish intellectual roots, but gets bogged down in social circles." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (28 reviews) LibraryThing: 3.5/5 (12 ratings)

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🔹 Despite being known for their hawkish foreign policy, many influential neoconservatives began as left-wing intellectuals, with several being former Trotskyists who shifted right during the Cold War. 🔹 Author Jacob Heilbrunn worked as an editorial writer for the Los Angeles Times and later became editor of The National Interest, a publication founded by Irving Kristol, who is often called the "godfather of neoconservatism." 🔹 The book's title is a reference to Anthony Trollope's 1869 novel "He Knew He Was Right," drawing a parallel between the Victorian character's destructive certainty and the neoconservative movement's ideological conviction. 🔹 Many key neoconservative figures, including Irving Kristol and Norman Podhoretz, emerged from New York's Jewish intellectual community of the 1930s and 1940s, which profoundly influenced their worldview and political evolution. 🔹 The neoconservative movement gained unprecedented influence during George W. Bush's presidency, with figures like Paul Wolfowitz and Richard Perle playing crucial roles in shaping the administration's response to 9/11 and the decision to invade Iraq.