The War Lovers: Roosevelt, Lodge, Hearst, and the Rush to Empire, 1898 Audiobook

" Perfect background for Teddy Roosevelt and William Randolph Hearst. I love this time period and how America changed. It's fascinating for a history guy like me, not sure it has appeal otherwise. "

" Thomas does his research and gives us an interesting perspective on TR ...bit of an ass up to and through the war. As president he mellows some. Good history read. "

" This is a non fiction book exploring the character of American jingoism in general and the titled characters, specifically, during the run up to and during the Spanish American war of 1898. Teddy Roosevelt and his best friend Henry Cabot Lodge, were Brahmins of Boston and believed strongly in social Darwinism, which was popular among the upper classes of that time. Basically, they believed that the most fit species of humanity, that being the English speaking Anglo-Saxons, were meant to lead and rule the lesser part of humanity, and in line with that they were purveyors of American exceptionalism, a belief that America is special among nations. Both also were believers in war in general as a molder of men and a brake on effetism. There was no good reason for America to go to war with Spain over Cuba, but Roosevelt, Lodge and William Randolph Hearst, along with others in power, pushed for it and they succeeded. It is a very interesting history and has parallels today, although there are always parallels to most history, especially when it comes to man’s desire for war and it’s misperceived glories. "

" Well written and interesting. But Thomas seems overly influenced by modern leftist attitudes and clearly doesn't like Roosevelt or Lodge. He seems not to understand them and glosses over letters or actions that put their more aggressive quotes in context. "

" Excellent look at post civil war warriors. The thinking behind the beginnings of American Imperialism "

" Dad loved this one - it seemed very readable and the font was nice a big. "

" Author seemed pretty hard on Theodore Roosevelt, which was an interesting take on his personality and actions prior to the Spanish-American War. Really enjoyed this. "

" Not my favorite book on Teddy.This guy had to have a war though. "

" A very readable history of the dawn of American Imperialism. Learned a lot about the main characters and the country at this time. Shocked by Teddy's attitude. Loved that Canton and Ohio in general were very important places at this time in American history. "

" Great history of T.R. and his buddies. "

" Very good book. A lot of good information. "

" Started out interesting, but became too dry for my taste. It's rather long, and I lost interest; did not finish this one. I may pick it back up another time, though! "

" I enjoyed this book, another great recommendation from Beth. I gained a new appreciation (or lack thereof) for T. Roosevelt. And you thought Barry Goldwater was a hawk! "

" Listened to on tape. Excellent. Book was obviously well researched. "

" Excellent audio book! Roosevelt and Lodge love war, so did Nixon and Kissinger. "

" Great Read. The ride up San Jaun Hill, was more sanguinary and dangerous than I thought. Amazing that Roosevelt was'nt shot out of the saddle. "