Book SummaryThe Passage of Power, by Robert A. Caro

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The Passage of Power

Lyndon Johnson's unyielding quest for the highest office and his ascent in the political hierarchy

Johnson's formative years and the cultivation of his aspirations

His upbringing in the challenging conditions of Texas poverty fostered a deep-seated longing for influence and a strong distaste for failure.

Caro portrays the difficult environment in which Lyndon Johnson was raised, amidst the economic hardships typical of the Texas Hill Country, highlighting the formative experiences that shaped his strong desire for power and his deep-seated fear of failure. Lyndon witnessed the economic struggles of his family after his father, Sam Ealy Johnson Jr., faced ruin due to a failed cotton farming venture. The family faced humiliation and the threat of losing their home. The determination that fueled Johnson stemmed from a steadfast commitment to evade a fate akin to that which he had witnessed, motivated by an unquenchable thirst for power and a profound dread of experiencing a fall in status and financial stability like the hardships his father endured.

Caro suggests that an overwhelming dread of failure, which took root in his formative years, was a defining element of Johnson's personality. In 1948, Johnson perceived an opportunity to attain the Senate role he had long coveted, but he experienced deep uncertainty when it came to determining his next move. His advisors, cognizant of his deep-seated fear of failure and the ensuing dishonor, encouraged him to face these apprehensions and announce his candidacy. Johnson consistently grappled with an internal struggle, balancing his intense drive for success against a deep-rooted feeling of unease.

He honed his skills in politics by engaging in electoral contests at both local and university levels, which presaged his future adeptness in tactical political operations.

Caro frequently emphasizes Lyndon B. Johnson's innate skill in politics during his educational endeavors and later professional life. While studying at Southwest Texas State Teachers College, Johnson took charge of a small social group called the "White Stars" and adeptly transformed it into an influential force within the college's political landscape. He solidified his influence by strategically overseeing elections, utilizing dubious methods, and offering employment prospects to students. This event foreshadowed his ability to discern and utilize the hierarchies of influence in any organization he became a part of, a skill he persistently refined throughout his time in public office.

Johnson's early political endeavors established a solid foundation for his later achievements in legislation, demonstrating his inherent skill in acquiring and wielding influence from the very beginning. During his early tenure in Congress, Johnson transformed a small discussion group called "The Little Congress" into a significant platform that enabled him to build connections with key legislators. Johnson possessed an uncanny ability to identify and capitalize on political opportunities that others often overlooked, as demonstrated during his leadership of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

Johnson's path to power

Johnson skillfully leveraged his connections and resources to climb the ladder of political success and increase his influence.

Caro emphasizes Johnson's tactical rise through the ranks of the House of Representatives, illustrating his remarkable ability to leverage connections and resources for political progression. He built powerful connections with key figures, including Sam Rayburn, and utilized financial backing from wealthy Texas businessmen to secure support and influence in Congress. Johnson turned down a substantial offer from a supporter, understanding that accepting it would...

The Passage of Power Summary The fierce struggle for supremacy between Johnson and the Kennedy family.

The battle to secure the Democratic Party's nomination in 1960.

LBJ miscalculated the evolving political terrain and the magnetic appeal that John F. Kennedy possessed.

Johnson's attempt to secure the presidential nomination in 1960 faced challenges and hesitation, largely because he misjudged John F. Kennedy's appeal and the changing political climate in America. Johnson was confident that his prominent connections and established reputation in Congress would lead to his selection, due to his belief that his legislative achievements would speak for themselves. He foresaw that the deficiencies in the other candidates' campaigns could lead to a deadlock during the convention, which seasoned politicians, emphasizing reliability, would probably settle to his advantage. The author contends that this significantly underestimated JFK's charm and the revolutionary effect of television on his campaign.

The book details how Johnson failed to grasp the evolving nature of political campaigns, in which television exposure could propel a relatively obscure senator into the national spotlight, a transition that Kennedy was quickly embracing. Kennedy's approach of actively...

The Passage of Power Summary Lyndon B. Johnson took over as president after Kennedy passed away.

The transition was marked by its unparalleled characteristics, which brought about inherent challenges.

The country was engulfed in sorrow and trepidation, heightened by the tensions of the Cold War and the dread of nuclear conflict, necessitating prompt and resolute leadership.

Caro skillfully portrays the challenges that arose with the transition of presidential authority following the assassination of John Kennedy, emphasizing the unique environment of grief, uncertainty, and political turbulence that necessitated Lyndon Johnson's immediate and decisive leadership. The country was gripped by an unparalleled terror, witnessing the live broadcast of a presidential assassination, an incident that became even more harrowing due to the disordered nature of the assault, the ambiguous motives of the assailant, and the ominous context of the Cold War period. In an era of profound national grief, the continuous and stable governance was essential to maintain public trust, a need that was heightened by the extensive broadcast of the events.

The author highlights the immense burden of duty that Johnson unexpectedly shouldered during a period of national grief, as he was...

The Passage of Power Summary Legislative Triumphs and Conflicts with Congress

Johnson sought to broker an agreement with Harry Byrd to overcome the deadlock concerning the legislation for tax cuts.

Johnson adeptly used his well-established relationship to flatter Byrd, securing the crucial backing he needed.

Caro thoroughly examines the crucial role Lyndon Johnson's strategic alliance with Harry Byrd played in the enactment of the tax cut bill. You see Johnson approaching Byrd not through intermediaries, but directly, appealing to the elderly senator's desire for respect, his pride in his principles, and his long-standing personal affection for the former Senate leader. Johnson skillfully convinced Byrd that his strong commitment to fiscal responsibility would be crucial in realizing the first budget reductions of the decade.

The book explores the complex nature of the negotiations, underscoring the President's skillful use of praise and persuasive conversation. Johnson secured understandings, promising Byrd adherence to the essential budgetary limit he had consistently endorsed, while heaping praise on the senator for his wise counsel and guidance. Johnson's acknowledgment of Byrd's accomplishments and his tactical decision to allow Byrd to...