America 250 · #21 President · 1881–1885
Chester A. Arthur
A machine hack who became, improbably, a civil-service reformer.
The biography
The Unexpected President: The Life and Times of Chester A. Arthur
Scott S. Greenberger · 2017
Modern and readable; the improbable transformation gets its due.
Worth considering
Gentleman Boss: The Life of Chester Alan Arthur
Thomas C. Reeves · 1975
The long-standing academic standard.
Common questions
What is the best biography of Chester A. Arthur?
The definitive biography of Chester A. Arthur is The Unexpected President: The Life and Times of Chester A. Arthur by Scott S. Greenberger. It provides a comprehensive look at his transition from a political machine operative to a significant civil-service reformer during his presidency.
Should I start with Scott S. Greenberger’s book to learn about Chester A. Arthur?
Yes, The Unexpected President: The Life and Times of Chester A. Arthur is the recommended starting point for readers. It effectively captures the improbable transformation of Chester A. Arthur from a party loyalist into a president who championed meaningful civil-service reform.
Are there other biographies of Chester A. Arthur if I want an alternative?
While Scott S. Greenberger's work is the definitive choice, there are alternative biographies available for those seeking different perspectives on the life of Chester A. Arthur. These trade-off options provide additional historical context regarding his tenure as the 21st president of the United States.
How does the biography by Scott S. Greenberger describe Chester A. Arthur?
Scott S. Greenberger describes Chester A. Arthur as a machine hack who improbably became a civil-service reformer. This biography examines how the former political operative navigated his presidency from 1881 to 1885 and implemented changes that defined his historical legacy.
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