Plain, Honest Men
by Richard Beeman
The Making of the American Constitution
- Percentage of approved critics who have given this book a positive review.
Critic Rating
95%
Critic Reviews: 6
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- User rating from iDreamBooks & iTunes
Reader Rating
95%
Reader Ratings: 50
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Synopsis
In May 1787, in an atmosphere of crisis, delegates met in Philadelphia to design a radically new form of government. Distinguished historian Richard Beeman captures as never before the dynamic of the debate and the characters of the men who labored that historic summer. Virtually all of the issues in dispute-the extent of presidential power, the nature of federalism, and, most explosive of all, the role of slavery-have continued to provoke conflict throughout... more
About Richard Beeman
- All Critics: 6
- Positive: 6
- Negative: 0
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The Washington Post | 22 Mar 2009
Although Beeman stresses the contingent nature and uncertain interpretation of the convention's decisions, what most strikes a contemporary reader is his description of endless bickering and tedious debates.
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The New York Times | 10 Apr 2009
...but Beeman’s work is distinguished by a gently judicious tone that allows us to appreciate, and draw some lessons from, the delicate balances that emerged out of that passion-filled Philadelphia crucible.
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Open Letters Monthly
Eventually I came to also see that it was Beeman’s gift for subtlety, inquisitiveness, judicious judgments and dispassionate objectivity that makes his book to stand out.
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Yahoo! Voices | 1 Dec 2010
Plain, Honest Men is an altogether brilliant account of how 58 men met in Philadelphia in the spring and summer of 1787 for the express purpose of forming an effective system of government for the United States.
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Christian Science Monitor | 9 Apr 2009
“Plain Honest Men” isn’t a page-turner. This is a story of committees and compromise, not stirring speeches and verbal duels. But Beeman...is a fine writer and has a firm grasp on the motives, machinations, and personalities of the 20 major players.
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The Herald-Dispatch | 3 Nov 2011
...Iis a testament to what can be accomplished when a few good people, holding vastly different opinions, are willing to come together, work together and compromise together for the good of the Nation.
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