I've been reading bio's of U.S. Presidents and this book was a terrific addition to the history of the era it covers. From FDR through Nixon it covered politics, economy, labor, the arts, giving a broader view of the times then the president bio's that look at everything through the subjects eyes.
I had read a few similar books, American Colossus by H.W. Brands, which did the Gilded Age, and Page Smiths America Enters The World and Redeeming The Time which did the early 1900's through FDR.
All were enjoyable, if long, and made understanding a presidents decisions a little easier.
A little more dense then the previous mentioned books, it still offered a great compliment to the period. It brought up many things I wouldn't have considered on my own which made it fun to read, and think about.
I would definitely recommend this, along with the others, to get a good sense of America during the times they cover. ( )

Two volumes: 1932-1952 and 1953-1972. I read only Volme One. ( )

Best narrative history book on 20th centry America. ( )