Happenings
Monday, November 4, 2019 at 7pm
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, GA
In Conversation: Hendrik Hertzberg and the Authors of the New Jack Brooks Biography
Hendrik Hertzberg with biographers Brendan and Timothy McNulty at the Jimmy Carter Library.
The Jack Brooks Foundation and NewSouth Books hosted a cocktail reception at The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum on November 4th at 5:30pm in connection with a program featuring authors Timothy and Brendan McNulty, authors of The Meanest Man in Congress: Jack Brooks and the Making of an American Century. Hendrik Hertzberg, political commentator, journalist and President Jimmy Carter’s chief White House speechwriter, lead the conversation about Brooks’ storied 50-year career and the legacy of his policymaking, ever more relevant today.
Watch C-SPAN’s coverage of the event here.
About the Book
A native of Beaumont, Texas, and a World War II veteran, Jack Brooks represented Texas' Ninth District for forty-two years in the U.S. Congress. One of the most influential congressmen you've never heard of, the indefatigable Brooks is finally getting his due in this first full biography. The Meanest Man in Congress chronicles in fascinating detail not only a remarkable lawmaker's career—spanning the tenures of ten U.S. presidents—but also the epic sweep of American history in the latter half of the twentieth century, from the Kennedy assassination to the Iran-Contra affair. Packed with anecdotes based on Brooks' personal correspondence, interviews with his peers and family members, and more, this meticulously researched biography traces the incredible life and times of a true public servant, a man who applied his tenacious will to practical, across-the-aisle governance for the good of his constituents and his country. At a time when Brooks' brand of selfless service is in short supply and American politics has become a zero-sum game, distinguished authors Timothy McNulty and Brendan McNulty bring into high relief the character of a man who knew how to compromise and bargain, negotiate and cooperate to get things done.
Learn more at www.jackbrooksfoundation.org.