Read Passion and Principle John and Jessie Frémont the Couple Whose Power Politics and Love Shaped NineteenthCentury America Sally Denton 9780803213685 Books

Product details Paperback 496 pages Publisher Bison Books (May 1, 2009) Language English ISBN-10 0803213689

Passion and Principle John and Jessie Frémont the Couple Whose Power Politics and Love Shaped NineteenthCentury America Sally Denton 9780803213685 Books Reviews

• As VP of Alumni Affairs at the College of Charleston, I've sought to learn as much as possible about the man who is arguably the most distinguished alumnus in our institution's nearly 250-year history. This is the third and by far the best biography of John Charles Fremont I've read. Unlike other tomes that dryly quote newspaper articles, speeches, and letters, this book was highly enjoyable. The author artfully presents the personal side of Fremont's story, which enriches the context greatly. Imagine being born out of wedlock in the 19th Century South and rising to such brilliant success. Fremont's intelligence, hard work, ambition, confidence, charm, and, yes, his faults and failures, are reflected in this book. It reads much like Killer Angels by Michael Shaara, providing historical facts, but also the complex familial relationships, culture, and emotions of the time. I learned much about the period and politics of pre-Civil War America, as well as the settling of the West. Fremont emerges as a multi-faceted human being who lived a fascinating life and contributed much to our country's expansion, rather than simply a hero or villain.
• Very interesting and informative history of perhaps the first real power couple in American history. First because Jessie Fremont exercised real power in our nation's capital and not just on her husband's behalf. Packed with details which I enjoyed (I taught American history for twenty years), but the writing doesn't flow in the manner of the best popular history writers out there.
• Very interesting to learn more about the history of California and the US.
• Wonderful story. How has this been kept out of history books all of this time? The story of this brave couple's life is amazing.
  Susan
• This is one of, if not The, best historical biographies you've never read--about the truest early American power couple we don't hear/read enough about. What a life they had! Thanks to biographer Sally Denton and for having it!
• This book is full of wonderful facts and stories about major American historical figures. Unfortunately, I found it a very hard read. In terms of information and a good 'back-story' on how some things came about, I recommend it. But if you are looking for an exciting page-turner, this may not be for everyone.
• Denton does a great job of setting the record straight about the Fremonts. They were an amazing couple and contributed far more then previous historical accounts gave them. Everyone who wants to know what the founding of California was all about should read this fine book.
• The story itself was interesting and educational. I didn't know that John Fremont did so many different expeditions out west and was also involved in politics. His wife, Jesse was extraordinary as well. She was his greatest champion, but had her own passions too! Ms.Denton introduces many different characters who were involved in important issues during the pre-Civil War era.
  
  I read the book on my kindle and the editing was atrocious! Sometimes I couldn't even figure out what a word was supposed to be. It is the kindle version of a book that I have ever ordered.