America 250 · #5 President · 1817–1825
James Monroe
The last Founder in the chair, presiding over an "Era of Good Feelings."
The biography
James Monroe: A Life
Tim McGrath · 2020
The most recent comprehensive one-volume; makes a hard subject vivid.
Worth considering
James Monroe: The Quest for National Identity
Harry Ammon · 1971
Long-standing academic standard, dry but rigorous.
Common questions
What is the best biography of James Monroe?
The definitive biography of James Monroe is James Monroe: A Life by Tim McGrath. It provides a comprehensive account of his presidency from 1817 to 1825 and his role as the last Founding Father to serve in the executive chair during the Era of Good Feelings.
Should I start with Tim McGrath’s biography of James Monroe?
Yes, James Monroe: A Life by Tim McGrath is the recommended starting point for readers interested in the fifth president. It covers his life and political career in detail, offering the most thorough historical analysis of his time in office and his contributions to the early American republic.
Are there other biographies of James Monroe besides the one by Tim McGrath?
While James Monroe: A Life by Tim McGrath is the definitive choice, readers seeking an alternative may consider other scholarly biographies on the market. These works provide different perspectives on his presidency and his legacy as the final member of the founding generation to hold the office.
How long is the definitive biography of James Monroe by Tim McGrath?
James Monroe: A Life by Tim McGrath is a substantial volume that details the life of the president who presided over the Era of Good Feelings. It is considered the standard reference for those who want a complete historical narrative of James Monroe and his eight years in the White House.
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