© Columbia University Press
The American Presidency
January, 2011
Paper, 224 pages,
ISBN: 978-0-7486-3535-1
Edinburgh University Press
$22.50
The presidency is unique and evolving, elastic and changing, with different occupants moulding the position to suit their own needs and national requirements. Sometimes, circumstances call for assertive and dynamic leadership, and other times, separated and shared powers have justly constrained power. This book concerns the evolution of the American presidency since the office was established by the Founding Fathers. While acknowledging the broad increase in presidential power from the time of the first incumbent, the book highlights the waxing and waning of power over time and traces how circumstances have influenced the ability of presidents to create and implement their programs.