Woodrow Wilson and the Press Prelude to the Presidency

"Featuring impeccable research and lucid analysis, Woodrow Wilson and the Press offers the first in-depth examination of this important aspect of Wilson's career." - George Juergens, Professor Emeritus, Indiana University

"This meticulously documented work sets the foundation for understanding today's political communication. It expands our knowledge of Woodrow Wilson and his era and opens the door to greater appreciation of the interrelationship between political and journalistic history. In studying Wilson's campaign press relations, we find the antecedents for contemporary political leadership, which attempts to shape public opinion through use of the mass media. James Startt's book offers a new perspective on the foundation for the modern Presidency. It should be of interest to historians and journalists alike."

- Maurine H. Beasley, Professor of Journalism, Univ. of Maryland, College Park

James D. Startt offers an excellent study of public opinion and political leadership. Focusing on Woodrow Wilson's relations with the press prior to his presidency, this book clearly demonstrates the future president's savvy understanding of the media in American democracy. His 1912 campaign, first to win the Democratic Party's nomination, and then to defeat the Republican president William Howard Taft and the Progressive candidate Theodore Roosevelt, would not have been possible otherwise. Anyone interested in President Wilson or in the connection betweenpublic opinion and political leadership in American democratic government will find Woodrow Wilson and the Press essential reading. Known for his previous books on communications and journalism, Startt brings that expertise to this outstanding new book on Woodrow Wilson, public opinion, and democratic government at the beginning of the 20th century. - Lloyd E. Ambrosius, Professor of History, University of Nebraska-Lincoln