Short, plain, balding, neither soldier nor orator, low on charisma and high on intelligence, Madison cared more about achieving results than taking the credit. To reach his lifelong goal of a self-governing constitutional republic, he blended his talents with those of key partners. It was Madison who led the drive for the Constitutional Convention and pressed for an effective new government as his patron George Washington lent the effort legitimacy;...

"John Kerry tells the story of his extraordinary life of public service, from decorated Vietnam veteran to five-term United States senator, 2004 Democratic presidential candidate, and Secretary of State for four years: a personal and candid memoir by a witness to some of the most important events of our recent history, including the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate accords."--Provided by publisher.

Profiles the life of William Seward, including his roles as governor of New York, as an anti-slavery activist, and as the man responsible for the acquisition of Alaska for the United States.

"The extraordinary career of George Catlett Marshall--America's most distinguished soldier-statesman since George Washington--whose selfless leadership and moral character influenced the course of two world wars and helped define the American century. Winston Churchill called him World War II's "organizer of victory." Harry Truman said he was "the greatest military man that this country ever produced." Today, in our era of failed leadership, few lives...

"Austria 1767: Maria Carolina Charlotte--ninth daughter and sixteenth child of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria--knows her position as a Hapsburg archduchess will inevitably force her to leave her home, her family, and her beloved country. But not yet. The Hapsburg family is celebrating a great triumph: Charlotte's older sister, Josepha, has been promised to King Ferdinand IV of Naples, and will soon take her place as queen. Before Josepha can journey...

Highlights the life and career of the Indian statesman and nationalist, from his youth to his civil disobedience to his assassination.

This engaging biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great--the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. Each book tells the story of an icon in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers. At the back are an excellent timeline and photos. This volume features Benjamin Franklin, whose contributions to science, politics, and writing have made a lasting mark on American...