America 250 · #14 President · 1853–1857
Franklin Pierce
A charming man and a catastrophic president who helped light the fuse to civil war.
The biography
Franklin Pierce
Michael F. Holt · 2010
American Presidents Series — by the leading historian of the antebellum collapse.
Common questions
What is the best biography of Franklin Pierce?
The definitive biography of Franklin Pierce is the book titled Franklin Pierce, written by Michael F. Holt. It is widely considered the most comprehensive and authoritative account of his life and his tenure as the fourteenth president of the United States.
Should I start with Michael F. Holt's biography of Franklin Pierce?
Yes, Michael F. Holt's biography is the recommended starting point for anyone interested in Franklin Pierce. It provides a clear analysis of his presidency, specifically examining how his actions and policies contributed to the political tensions that eventually led to the American Civil War.
How long is the definitive biography of Franklin Pierce by Michael F. Holt?
The definitive biography of Franklin Pierce by Michael F. Holt is a substantial academic work. It provides a detailed examination of his time in office from 1853 to 1857, covering his reputation as a charming individual alongside the catastrophic political failures that marked his administration.
Does Michael F. Holt's biography cover Franklin Pierce's role in the Civil War?
Yes, Michael F. Holt's biography explores how Franklin Pierce helped light the fuse to the Civil War. The book details the specific political decisions made during his presidency between 1853 and 1857 that exacerbated national divisions and pushed the United States toward armed conflict.
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