Michael Kazin A Godly Hero: The Life of William Jennings Bryan

A Godly Hero

Though it lacks the wide opinion that William Jennings Bryan was a brimstone theologian who was an intolerant believer in the white man's burden, this biography shows the other side of one of the most influential Americans of the early twentieth century. Bryan is considered by many as the first great perhaps "founder" of populism, the basis of much thinking on both sides of the aisle today. The book insightfulyl digs deep into a complex religious political and social activist, but also lacks the criticism that many of his peers claimed about him especially during the epic battle with Darrow. On top of the Scopes trial, which by itself is fascinating and relevant in today's world of debating Darwinism, other Bryan topic seem so too. Whether it is eugenics and the Shiavo affair, corporate-government partnering for a few select lobbying interests making profit, or a firm belief that the government could improve the economic (liberals) and moral life (conservatives) of the people, this is a terrific look at A GODLY HERO.

Michael Kazin

Knopf, Fen 2006, $30.00

ISBN: 0375411356

Harriet Klausner