The Meanest Man in Congress: Jack Brooks and the Making of an American Century - Hardcover

by Brendan McNulty (Author), Timothy McNulty (Author), Jim Wright (Preface by)

A native of Beaumont, Texas, and a World War II veteran, Jack Brooks served for forty-two years in the U.S. Congress, representing Texas's 9th district. One of the most influential congressmen nobody ever heard of, Brooks is finally getting his due in this new biography, the first ever written about his life. The Meanest Man in Congress: Jack Brooks and the Making of an American Century chronicles in fascinating detail not only the career of a remarkable lawmaker, which spanned the tenures of ten U.S. presidents, but also the epic sweep of American history in the latter half of the 20th century, from the Kennedy assassination to the Iran-Contra affair.

Packed with anecdotes about the irascible Brooks based on his personal correspondence, interviews with his peers and family members, and more, this meticulous biography traces the incredible life and times of a true public servant, a man who applied his tenacious will to practical, across-the-aisle governance for the good of his constituents and his country. At a time when Brooks's brand of selfless service is in short supply and American politics has become a zero-sum game, distinguished authors Timothy McNulty and Brendan McNulty bring into high relief the character of a man who knew how to compromise and bargain, negotiate and cooperate to get things done.

Author Biography

A senior editor and correspondent at the Chicago Tribune for many years, TIM MCNULTY was the newspaper's public editor until leaving in August 2008. Tim was among the first eight American journalists allowed to live in Beijing in the late 1970s. Later, as the Middle East correspondent, he worked in Beirut and Jerusalem. Upon returning to the US, he reported on social and political policy making in Washington for more than 13 years as national affairs correspondent and as a White House correspondent.