Arthur J. Goldberg New Deal Liberal [Hardcover]

This book is the first biography ever written of Arthur J. Goldberg, the former labor lawyer, Secretary of Labor under Kennedy, and Supreme Court justice (which post he resigned at the request of Lyndon Johnson to become U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations), who played a leading role in American political life from World War II until the end of the 1960s. Goldberg, who never wrote memoirs himself, shared his thoughts about his life and work with Stebenne in a series of conversations, which took place occasionally from the fall of 1981 through to Goldberg's death in 1990. He also allowed Stebenne access to his papers, including those held under seal in presidential libraries and at the Library of Congress. Based upon these unique sources and written to be accessible to a wide audience,Arthur J. Goldbergis both the story of a leading American liberal and a history of modern American liberalism.

Stebenne's diligently researched study is the best work to date on this prominent American public servant. --CHOICE

An absorbing, scholarly biography of an undeservedly neglected legal thinker....An illuminating look at a fascinating figure in 20th-century politics. --Kirkus Reviews

Former Labor Secretary Willard Wirtz described Arthur J. Goldberg as 'perpetual energy in constant motion leading to endless achievement.' This book provides an interesting, comprehensive account of that achievement--and far more. Professor Stebenne in writing of Justice Goldberg has given us the history of the American labor movement, from World War II through Viet Nam. He tells a fascinating story. His analysis illuminates contemporary political, as well as economic, circumstance. Those interested in American government, labor relations, or history, will find his book a valuable contribution. --Associate Justice Stephen G. Breyer, United States Supreme Court

David Stebenne's study of Arthur Goldberg is both a superb biography olC