America 250 · #17 President · 1865–1869
Andrew Johnson
Reconstruction's saboteur — the first president impeached, and nearly removed.
The biography
Andrew Johnson
Annette Gordon-Reed · 2011
American Presidents Series — the leading historian of race in the period; devastating.
Worth considering
Andrew Johnson: A Biography
Hans L. Trefousse · 1989
Full-length, more comprehensive.
Common questions
What is the best biography of Andrew Johnson?
The definitive biography is Andrew Johnson by Annette Gordon-Reed. It provides a comprehensive look at his presidency and his role as the first U.S. president to face impeachment proceedings during the difficult period of Reconstruction.
Should I start with Annette Gordon-Reed's biography of Andrew Johnson?
Yes, Annette Gordon-Reed's work is the recommended starting point for understanding Andrew Johnson. It explores his political tenure and his efforts to undermine Reconstruction, which ultimately led to his impeachment and a near-removal from office.
Are there other biographies of Andrew Johnson besides the one by Annette Gordon-Reed?
While Annette Gordon-Reed provides the definitive account, there are alternative biographies available for readers seeking different perspectives on Andrew Johnson. These trade-off options allow you to compare scholarly approaches to his controversial presidency and his specific role in the Reconstruction era.
Why is Andrew Johnson often described as a saboteur of Reconstruction?
Andrew Johnson is frequently labeled a saboteur of Reconstruction due to his political actions following the Civil War. His resistance to congressional policies regarding the readmission of Southern states and civil rights for freedmen served as the primary catalyst for his impeachment by the House of Representatives.
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