The Wars of the Roosevelts: The Ruthless Rise of America’s Greatest Political Family

The Roosevelt clan was a storied and legendary extended family filled with ambition, intelligence, and power. The Wars of the Roosevelts begins at the end with Eleanor examining the roots and intricacies of the clan. Theodore Roosevelt aspired to be a leader, and he would succeed in combat and politics. He would be advised by his sister Bye but would need to avoid near disaster by distancing himself from ne’er-do-well Elliott, hampered by drinking and womanizing. Elliott was the father of future First Lady Eleanor, who would battle most of her life between her cousins’ rivalry and her mother’s second-guessing. Teddy Roosevelt would obtain the Presidency and would let Progressive views guide his leadership, but he would be eclipsed by distant relation Franklin, who would reign for twelve years in office. The ties between Oyster Bay and Hyde Park would be ripped asunder by petty jealousies and insults, both real and perceived. Yet both families would leave their marks on the history of the US.

The Wars of the Roosevelts is an emotional journey, engaging the reader in tales of success and woe on both sides. The men and women of the illustrious family are not perfect, but they are interesting, if not occasionally fascinating. The good, bad, and ugly are written for all to see, and the history is intriguing in every aspect. Do not miss!