Finding Wisdom in the White House

Finding Wisdom in the White House

By Zhang Guoqing

U.S. Leader’s Wisdom By Zhang Guoqing 273 pages RMB 28 Published in Beijing by Qiuzhen Publishing House

THE president of the United States might be one of the most familiar strangers to the Chinese people. One may be not clear about his full name, but one should be aware of the issues that concern him the most, and of his latest achievements.

During my research into American politics, a question often arose in my mind: what was the secret to the U.S.’s success in becoming one of the most influential countries? In other words, could that be attributed to one person or one event? This thought led me to look at the ideas and policies put forth by the nation’s leaders, which I have collected in my book U.S. Leader’s Wisdom.

Behind the prosperity of the country were the efforts and persistence of generations of Americans, and the guidance of their political heads. While sifting through more than 300 books and biographies, I discovered a pattern in which the U.S. presidents could be seen as the binding element in the growth of the United States. Each man echoed the unique needs and happenings of their time, becoming a reflection of the spirit of the moment. They were certainly not the only factor for the country’s success, but their contributions to it cannot be ignored.

The formation of the country’s most critical institutions owes much to their great minds. Men like Theodore and Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson made great efforts to improve the lives of ordinary people, and created blueprints to mold the current social security system and many other important beneficial policies. These leaders had the perseverance to maintain the stability of the nation and allow its citizens to enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

What kind of person does it take to lead the United States? Having an open mind seems to be a key factor. It is one of the toughest jobs in the world, even for men like Thomas Jefferson, who in his days faced detractors. But he knew the value in those voices and thus helped to pen the constitutional law to the right to free speech that is still used today. This spirit nurtures the flowers of vigor.

I see the words and deeds of these figures as being of great value to China, as it grows into one of the most influential countries of our time. Perhaps these pearls of wisdom can be used as China takes its place among the international communities. Most nations and their leaders are driven by self-interest, but if we look at these men who looked beyond borders to embrace the world we can see our future. Comparing the personalities and individual styles of the presidents can be illuminating. Current president Barack Obama is a shining example of the American dream. George W. Bush, his predecessor and a practical unilateralist, was often criticized, but he never wavered from his beliefs. By understanding these men we can better navigate a future course, and avoid unnecessary crises and improve bilateral relations.

This book is written for everyone. It recounts the stories of nine U.S. presidents, ranging from George Washington, Calvin Coolidge to Barack Obama, and addresses their individual achievements, faults and characteristics – Obama’s persistence and George W. Bush’s strong sense of family. These characteristics have a particular attraction for common readers. People can learn from their experiences and secrets to success, and gain valuable insight into the country’s history.

This book is filled with interesting observations and facts. In terms of horoscopes, three of the four presidents of Pisces – George Washington, James Madison and Andrew Jackson – laid a solid foundation for the country. Three of the five presidents of Aquarius – Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Ronald Regan – played vital roles in the nation’s transformation. Two (F. D. Roosevelt and William Harrison) died of disease in office, and two (Lincoln and William McKinley) were assassinated in office. Four presidents of Taurus – Harry S. Truman, James Buchanan, Ulysses S. Grant and James Monroe – made major contributions to victory in wars and shaping diplomacy.

By looking at these men through everyday eyes we can view them from a more humanistic perspective. I hope readers will get some ideas from this book on how to deal with tough issues in their own lives, become more capable and efficient, and see the world from an international angle and with a broader mind.

________________________________

ZHANG GUOQING is a research fellow with the Institute of American Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.