Franklin D. Roosevelt is a remarkable figure in the history of the twentieth century. A masterful politician who won four presidential terms without precedent, initiated groundbreaking reforms that transformed the American industrial system, and turned an isolationist country into an international superpower, he is considered one of the greatest presidents in the nation’s history. His ability to unite a divided nation and create consensus remains unmatched. Robert Dallek's biography is a remarkable portrait of a man who dedicated himself entirely to public affairs – a statesman who found politics to be a far more interesting and fulfilling path in life than managing family wealth or indulging in personal pleasures, and who skillfully used his office to advance an extraordinary agenda. Dallek attributes Roosevelt's success to two notable political insights. First, he understood, unlike any other president, that effectiveness in...