President Nixon: A Political Portrait

by Earl Mazo

326 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1959

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fascinating read for me! as a history teacher and 20th century history buff born during carter's administration, I've only ever seen one perspective of Nixon represented on the history books. Because this book was written before Watergate... indeed, even before Nixon became president, it presents an intriguing view of the man, including a defense of his morality and honesty, that I'd never seen before. I enjoyed it immensely, although the writing itself got bogged down with details and names (which I could not relate to) at times.

[Shirt Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you've read a thing or two about Nixon, Earl Mazo's name has most likely popped up without much detail given. For those who don't know, this man was a massive Nixon fan.
I want to state that I am a Nixon supporter, but I appreciate biographies/"portraits" that go out of their way to be neutral on their views. Mazo was a little too heavy on the support, but I rather it be support than the opposite.

Anyways, I still like the perspective given on the man from the 1950s.

[E.H. Nolan · Rating 3 out of 5]

What’s really fascinating about this biography of Richard Nixon is that Earl Mazo wrote and published it before the subject became President Nixon. Imagine a book titled A Political Portrait that hasn’t even touched upon his first presidential run, let alone his two terms as commander-in-chief! Needless to say, I found Mazo’s angle very interesting. He wrote about Nixon’s congressional career, and his time as Vice-President, parts that are often ignored in more modern books since Nixon’s presidency is so much more memorable.
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I’ve read several books written about and by Nixon, and I always try to be fair in my recommendations. I know not everyone is as big a fan as I am, so the books I like won’t go over as well with most people. This is one of those books. It’s pretty obvious Earl Mazo liked Nixon, and if you don’t share his opinion, you’ll probably have a strong urge to put the book down. But if you like Nixon, or you don’t mind reading a book that paints him in a positive light, this is a good one!

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[Gene McAvoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read. The author was, as one might say, very 'pro-Nixon' and much like most news sources today was not at all unbiased in his opinions - presenting Nixon in only a positive manner and neglecting to mention some of his negative points. A good contrast to this book might be the one I am now reading, Richard M. Nixon by Elizabeth Drew, part of the Time Books, American Presidents series.

I would recommend this book with the caveat to read something else as well if you are seeking a more true portrait of our 37th President.