How to Assess the Greatness of Presidents
Presidents and Greatness
What makes a president great? Historians and voters have debated this question for centuries. Some argue that greatness lies in the ability to win elections and maintain power, while others emphasize the transformative impact a president has on the nation.
The Importance of Elections
According to Robert W. Merry, author of “Where They Stand,” voters play a crucial role in determining presidential greatness. He argues that the greatest presidents are those who have earned the trust of the American people in multiple elections.
Historians vs. Voters
While historians’ views are important, Merry believes they should not be the sole factor in assessing presidential greatness. He contends that voters’ perspectives offer valuable insights into how presidents are perceived in their own time.
The Three-Part Test
Merry proposes a three-part test to identify the greatest presidents:
- Consistent recognition as great or near-great by historians
- Reelection to a second term by their own party
- Transformation of the political landscape and the nation’s course
Leaders of Destiny
Merry identifies six presidents as “Leaders of Destiny”:
- George Washington
- Thomas Jefferson
- Andrew Jackson
- Abraham Lincoln
- Theodore Roosevelt
- Franklin D. Roosevelt
These presidents shared several key traits, including:
- Understanding the needs of the nation
- Visionary leadership
- Political adroitness
Good Presidents vs. Great Presidents
Merry distinguishes between good presidents and great presidents. Good presidents effectively manage the country, while great presidents take risks and make bold changes. Bill Clinton is cited as an example of a good president who lacked the boldness to achieve greatness.
Character and Scandals
Scandals can damage a president’s reputation, but character flaws like indecisiveness and unwillingness to take risks are even more detrimental to success. James Buchanan’s failure to address the slavery crisis is an example of such character flaws.
Reputation-Altering Biographies
Presidential biographies can significantly influence public opinion about a president. Grover Cleveland, the only two-time, one-term president, saw his reputation improve after the publication of a biography that hailed him as a man of destiny and character.
Evaluating Current Candidates
Merry advises that voters focus on the incumbent’s performance when evaluating presidential candidates. The American people tend to make sound judgments based on the president’s leadership and the country’s well-being.
Qualities to Look for in Candidates
Predicting presidential greatness is impossible, but history shows that great presidents are often elected in times of political turmoil. Supporters and detractors alike may hold strong opinions about a candidate’s potential, but only time will tell how effective they will be.
The State of the Country and Deadlock
Merry expresses concern about the current political deadlock in the United States. He questions how the country can overcome this crisis and move forward.
Confidence in Beliefs
Merry acknowledges that certainty about one’s views diminishes with experience. However, he believes that thoughtful observation and analysis can lead to well-grounded perceptions about how the world works.
