Synopses & Reviews
Review
"Thomas J. Walsh, hero of the Teapot Dome scandal, is the last prominent progressive senator to be the subject of a major biography. This long-awaited book was a labor of love, distilled from research that occupied the entire professional lifetime of the late Professor Bates. It was worth waiting for. The determined IrishCatholic Montana lawyer comes to life in a well-balanced account of a very interesting reformer. The personal aspects of Walsh's life are especially richly conveyed. Deft consideration of the national context of Walsh's career is as would be expected of a well-respected historian of progressivism. The depth of understanding of Montana political and social life is quite exceptional. This splendid book will assume an important place in the history of an era in American history during which determined, forceful, eloquent, yet practical individuals such as Tom Walsh fought resolutely to 'do the right thing' in government." Reviewed by Andrew Witmer, Virginia Quarterly Review (Copyright 2006 Virginia Quarterly Review)
Synopsis
"This is the first comprehensive biography of Thomas J. Walsh, Democratic senator from Montana from 1913 to 1933, best known for his role in uncovering the Teapot Dome scandal. J. Leonard Bates places Walsh in his colorful and tumultuous times, illuminating Montana history and politics as well as broad national movements including Progressivism, internationalism, Prohibition, war, and so-called normalcy."--BOOK JACKET. "In his most celebrated coup, breaking open the Teapot Dome scandal of 1923-24, Walsh revealed that the secretary of the interior had accepted "loans" from oil men in return for leases of U.S. naval oil reserves. Working through the Public Lands Committee of the Senate, Walsh enjoyed support for his investigation from members of both parties, and his interpretation of the scandal was endorsed by the Supreme Court in 1927. Shortly before his death, he presided over the Democratic National Convention that nominated Franklin Roosevelt and served for a brief time as a key figure in the new leader's circle."--BOOK JACKET.