such an interesting book on America's first black dynasty... blanche bruce went from slavery to the first african american to be elected into senate, then the treasury... beyond amazing that a former slave was now signing every dollar bill in the united states.

Great bio. Almost read like a novel (makes the fact that it's a true story even sweeter)

Wow. One of the best books I have ever read. This book has everything: a lot of history, a great story, and so many things to really make you think. The people of the Bruce dynasty are very polarizing people. They're elitist and condescending on one hand, but also live in a very difficult period that is full of racism and limited opportunities. They are also a part of a really small circle of the "black elite" so not many people can really relate to their struggles, and it's not a perspective that I've heard that often.

It's a thick book and kind of a slower read if you want to take it all in, but I loved every moment.

Very interesting family but poorly written.

I learned so much. Definitely glad I invested time ro learn about this family. Highly recommend.

An interesting story but in desperate need of editing

Very interesting, not as compelling a read as i like.

Just ordered for my summer reading list.

It took me forever to get through this! The book has a lot of information in it. This families story should have made a difference in lives of black Americans, but like most politicians they were out of touch with the common man and only looked out for their best interest and so instead of changing things for the better they made things worse! The book is dry, but worth the read!

Just picked this up at Border's today after admiring it for a while. I love politics and socializing :)

History. Glad someone told this family's story

Being a Northerner my education had a large 'black hole' when it came to antebellum southern history. This book has filled in some blanks and will no doubt serve as a spring board for further exploration. All in all a well researched work of nonfiction which paints a vivid picture of Senator Bruce, his family and the turbulent Zeitgeist of the antebellum South, Washington DC politics and beyond.