Book Summary: “A Man of Iron: The Turbulent Life and Improbable Presidency of Grover Cleveland”
Dave’s Notes:
“A Man of Iron: The Turbulent Life and Improbable Presidency of Grover Cleveland”
by Troy Senik
2022 — Threshold Editions — 384 pages
DAVE’S SUMMARY
A Man of Iron” by Troy Senik explores the life and presidency of Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th president of the United States. Despite acknowledging Cleveland’s shortcomings, the book contends that he was one of the country’s greatest presidents. Cleveland’s political journey began in New York, where he gained fame as an anti-corruption crusader, serving as mayor and governor.
The book emphasizes that Cleveland’s greatness lay in his ordinary demeanor. Physically unimposing, he defied traditional presidential expectations, resembling a foundry foreman. His self-made, scrupulously honest image resonated with Americans, leading to an eight-year presidency.
Cleveland faced personal scandals, including a sex scandal during the 1884 campaign. His first term included a White House wedding and a secret cancer surgery. Despite these challenges, Cleveland adhered to classical liberal principles — narrow constitutional interpretation, limited federal government, and a light touch on economic affairs.
The defining features of Cleveland’s greatness were his opposition to corruption, adherence to principles regardless of political consequences, and the belief that public office is a public trust. He was associated with laissez-faire capitalism, federalism, the gold standard, and anti-imperialism.
Cleveland’s political success in Buffalo stemmed from a blend of classical liberalism and populism. His governorship showcased his impact, and the book notes the early signs of presidential aspirations.
During his presidency, Cleveland vetoed a record number of bills using the tools provided by the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act. This legislation reshaped the federal job appointment process, eliminating political appointments and preventing the practice of “assessments.”
Cleveland’s impact extended to Native American policies through the Dawes Act, attempting to convert tribal lands into privately owned parcels. His concerns also reached western lands and the Homestead Act, where corporate interests exploited loopholes.
Cleveland’s views on immigration leaned towards acceptance, as he believed it was vital for the nation’s success. The book portrays him as a serious, duty-bound figure, dedicated to public service.
The narrative delves into Cleveland’s personal life, particularly his marriage to Frances Folsom Cleveland. Despite occasional romantic speculations, their relationship endured. The book explores Cleveland’s electoral successes and failures, noting his isolation and marginalization within the Democratic Party.
Cleveland’s second term faced economic challenges, with the Treasury’s gold reserves threatened. His personal life seemed charmed, but the president battled cancer secretly, managing a cover-up and a national economic crisis.
Ultimately, Cleveland’s legacy is framed by his moral courage, refusing opportunities that contradicted his principles. He left office with a unique legacy — serving two nonconsecutive terms, winning the popular vote three times, and displaying unparalleled moral courage.
Key Takeaways:
Ordinary Greatness: Cleveland’s unassuming, ordinary demeanor belied his greatness, rooted in principles, opposition to corruption, and commitment to public trust.
Classical Liberal Principles: Cleveland adhered to classical liberal principles, favoring a narrow interpretation of the Constitution, limited federal government, and a hands-off approach to economic affairs.
Anti-Corruption Crusader: Cleveland’s presidency was marked by a fierce opposition to corruption, evident in his record-breaking number of vetoed bills and commitment to civil service reform.
Challenges in Native American and Western Policies: The book highlights Cleveland’s impact on Native American policies through the Dawes Act and his concerns about the exploitation of western lands by corporate interests.
Moral Courage: Cleveland’s legacy is defined by his moral courage, refusing politically beneficial opportunities that contradicted his principles, leaving a unique mark on American presidential history.
