David M. Rubenstein's latest book, "The Highest Calling: Conversations on the American Presidency," presents a unique collection of interviews with prominent historians and living presidents. While the book offers valuable historical insights, it falls short of exploring deeper questions about the nature of presidential power and its implications for contemporary America.
Rubenstein, known for his extensive collection of historical documents and philanthropic efforts, brings together conversations with renowned scholars such as Ron Chernow, Peter Baker, and Annette Gordon-Reed. These interviews, many conducted at the New-York Historical Society, provide a chronological overview of American leadership from the nation's founding to the present day.
One of the book's strengths lies in Rubenstein's ability to engage historians in hypothetical scenarios, a rarity in academic discourse. For instance, he prompts Ron Chernow to speculate on whether Abraham Lincoln's assassination might have been prevented if General Grant had been present at Ford's Theatre.
The book also includes interviews with four living presidents, including a recent Oval Office conversation with Joe Biden and a phone interview with Donald Trump. However, these interactions yield few revelations, with Trump's statement about achieving goals "through force" being one of the few notable moments.
Rubenstein's background as a co-founder of the Carlyle Group, which manages $425 billion in assets, has afforded him unique access to historical artifacts and political figures. He has acquired rare copies of foundational documents such as the Declaration of Independence, ratified in 1776, and the U.S. Constitution, adopted in 1788. Many of these documents are on loan for public display at institutions like the National Archives, established in 1935.
While "The Highest Calling" provides a wealth of historical information, it often lacks deeper analysis of how past presidential decisions relate to current challenges. For example, a discussion about George H.W. Bush's 1989 inaugural speech, which addressed political divisions, could have led to insights on bridging today's polarization but instead moves on without further exploration.
The book's focus on chronological narratives rather than thematic inquiries limits its potential impact. By not delving into broader questions about the evolving nature of presidential power or the long-term consequences of leadership decisions, Rubenstein misses an opportunity to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the American presidency.
"If there had been a greater arc of inquiry running across Rubenstein's interviews, the book could have built more purposely toward a larger, urgent question. Perhaps: What sort of nation do we become, and are we choosing to become, with each passing election?"
Despite these limitations, "The Highest Calling" remains a valuable resource for those interested in presidential history. Rubenstein's connections to historical preservation, including his support for the restoration of landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial (dedicated in 1943) and Mount Vernon (George Washington's home from 1754 to 1799), add depth to the book's historical context.
In conclusion, while Rubenstein's work provides a comprehensive timeline of American leadership, it leaves readers wanting more analysis of how presidential decisions have shaped and continue to influence the nation's trajectory. As the United States faces ongoing challenges, a deeper examination of its leadership history could offer valuable lessons for the future.