Book SummaryAn Ordinary Man, by Richard Norton Smith

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of An Ordinary Man

The formative years and political ascent of Ford, along with his evolution as a statesman

Smith begins his biography by emphasizing how Ford's early experiences significantly shaped his development and subsequent contributions to public service. Ford often spoke about his achievements and shortcomings with a candid and sincere approach.

His formative years fostered a deep commitment to diligence.

Smith asserts that Ford was instrumental in the development and growth of his stepson. Ford Senior's journey from modest roots to a secure middle-class life instilled in a young man the importance of diligence. During meal times, the Ford family frequently engaged in conversations that emphasized the significance of honesty and hard work. These and other principles instilled by Dorothy Ford and her second husband would underpin the political career of their eldest son in ways no law professor or political operative could hope to replicate.

Early exposure to politics through a multiethnic and active household

During his formative years, his family frequently participated in discussions regarding political matters. Gerald Ford Sr., his stepfather, was part of a growing group of community leaders intent on wresting control of the government from a corrupt political machine. The narrative includes a segment where the younger Ford assumed a secondary role. Ford stood out from his athletic peers by taking a stand against the Communists in his high school, who were agitating for free textbooks and lockers for students. Ford encountered backlash in the following years for his attempts to oust Associate Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas from his position. However, this incident, along with similar events, demonstrates Ford's understanding and his active challenge against the belief by some that freedom meant having no restrictions on one's actions.

Context

• Political machines were prevalent in the United States from the late 19th to the early 20th century, with famous examples like Tammany Hall in New York City. These organizations often controlled elections and government contracts, leading to widespread calls for reform.
• The era in which Ford grew up, including the Great Depression and World War II, was marked by significant political and social change, which would have been topics of discussion in his household.
• The advocacy for free educational resources by those labeled as "Communists" might have been part of broader social movements advocating for educational reform and equality, which were sometimes misunderstood or mischaracterized during this period.
• The impeachment attempt ultimately failed, as the House of Representatives did not pursue formal charges against Douglas. The effort, however, highlighted divisions within Congress and the broader political landscape.

Ford's participation in scouting and athletic competitions was instrumental in shaping the values he held in high regard.

Engagement in scouting and sports played a pivotal role in shaping the young Ford's personality, which may have been as influential in his formative years as the guidance he received from his parents. Smith offers an in-depth look at Ford's initial fervor for the Boy Scouts. Ford perpetually regarded his attainment of the Eagle Scout rank as a milestone, valuing its importance even after five decades. Throughout his high school tenure, Ford participated enthusiastically in a range of sports, such as football, and he took part in basketball and track events as well. The rigorous preparation demanded of team members fostered not only his self-discipline but also his capacity to maintain composure after losses and to welcome valuable insights from mentors and peers.

Context

• The physical demands of sports and the structured environment of scouting require discipline and commitment. This can translate into a strong work ethic and the ability to set and achieve personal goals.
• Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout is a prestigious accomplishment that requires earning numerous merit badges and completing a significant community service project. This process fosters a sense of responsibility and achievement.
• Participation in the Boy Scouts often involves taking on leadership roles within a troop, which can help develop skills in organization, communication, and team management.
• The rank is widely recognized and respected, often noted in resumes and biographies, and can provide lifelong benefits in terms of networking and career opportunities.
• During Ford's youth, the Boy Scouts were a prominent organization in the United States, promoting values such as citizenship, character, and fitness, which were highly regarded in American society.
• During Ford's era, sports were predominantly male-dominated, reflecting broader societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles in athletics.
• Participation in sports is often linked to the development of character traits such as integrity, perseverance, and leadership, which are valuable in all areas of life.

He overcame obstacles to pursue higher education.

The author narrates an engaging story that gradually reveals the personal and financial obstacles Ford overcame to attain higher education. The path of Ford's early career was initially undefined, and although fortune played a substantial role in his outcomes, he was adept at leveraging the fortuitous opportunities that arose.

He managed to juggle his responsibilities as both a student and an athlete, culminating in the successful completion of his studies at the University of Michigan.

Ford's prowess in football earned him national recognition, which resulted in his nomination to academic all-star teams and attracted attention from prestigious schools like Harvard and Dartmouth. Ultimately, Ford's path to joining the university he greatly admired for its football excellence was made possible by a sports enthusiast and a notable...

An Ordinary Man Summary Ford's unexpected ascension to the position of Vice President and his subsequent handling of the Watergate scandal

Smith recounts the progression of incidents that ultimately led to Ford ascending to the presidency, showcasing narrative prowess on par with that of Theodore White, and incorporates captivating stories like Ford's campaign trips in Michigan following his marriage and a detailed depiction of the final days of the Nixon Administration.

Ford assumed the role of Vice President after Agnew vacated the post.

Nixon faced challenges in selecting an appropriate vice presidential candidate because of his eroding credibility, the desire to avoid a protracted confirmation battle with a more assertive Congress, and the fear of causing rifts in the Republican Party by picking a contender from the 1976 campaign based on ideological or geographical considerations.

The role of personal relationships and tactical planning in securing endorsement from a legislature dominated by Democrats.

The dominant view was that the President's nomination came about as a final recourse. Smith contends that Nixon's choice was grounded solely in tactical considerations, owing to Ford's revered position within Congress, which had garnered him unanimous admiration from every political faction. Paul...

An Ordinary Man Summary Throughout Ford's term in office, important policies and major initiatives were enacted on both the national and global stage.

Smith portrays a range of critical choices and predicaments that were pivotal throughout Ford's time in office. Ford distinguished himself as the first president to transition away from the New Deal era, implementing economic strategies and deregulation efforts that foreshadowed the transformative policies associated with Ronald Reagan.

Ford was firmly dedicated to enhancing the power of his Cabinet and to assigning tasks.

Ford worked to create an open administration, ensuring that his Cabinet members were granted the same level of access to the Oval Office as his assistants, marking a clear departure from the former administration's atmosphere of suspicion.

The president opted for the appointment of well-known personalities such as William Coleman, rather than retaining several appointees from Nixon's administration.

The incoming administration moved quickly to fill Cabinet positions with new appointees, replacing those associated with the previous presidency or who had lost the confidence of the president. The process generated far fewer fireworks than did the pardon fiasco as Ford sought out those whose credentials, temperament and experience were universally...

An Ordinary Man Summary Ford's enduring significance is marked by his wide-ranging personal and political associations, even after his presidency concluded.

Gerald Ford was the last representative of his political generation to hold the presidency. To fully understand his character, one must take into account the political and cultural context of the time.

Following his loss to Jimmy Carter in 1976, he made a deliberate choice to withdraw from the spotlight.

Ford, more comfortable with focusing on the welfare of others than enhancing his own reputation, had been advised by his partner on the importance of moving towards a more personal life following the end of his professional journey.

Securing the financial well-being of his family and transforming the concept of presidential retirement into a period for monetary recuperation.

This was to prove wishful thinking, as Ford, who entered politics with the equivalent of a couple of dimes in his pocket, was forced to compensate in his retirement for the financial demands of half a century in Washington.

Context

• Unlike some of his contemporaries, Ford did not have substantial personal wealth or family money to support him, relying instead on his congressional salary.

Other Perspectives

• It is not uncommon for public servants to have modest savings, and...