Just an OK book quoting the history of the US. Not much insight gained.

Preparing for a class on leadership, I reread this from a few years back. I did not try to read it all at once but rather took time as I developed some lessons bit by bit; it could be read in a few days or possibly one or two for extremely fast readers. It's got some solid stories in the first half, and there are some interesting applications in the second part of the book. I am going to use it in referencing how to look for lessons leaders gave in the past and how to apply those same observations to leadership (or lack of leadership) in our current world.

I've found that most biographical leadership books take cliche, ubiquitous leadership principles and provide moderately interesting anecdotes to support these universally held principles. Just as most romantic comedies are neither romantic nor humorous, I've found this genre of books to be neither biography nor leadership (as far as fresh insight goes).

I'm done with them. If you want to read a biography, read a biography. If you want to read a leadership book, read a leadership book. And if you want to watch a romantic comedy, read Jane Austen.

This book contains enough historical commentary to make it a valuable volume on American History... Then the author applies that history to modern business leadership making for an invaluable read. It is filled with quotes of the founders of the American Government - valuable insights and life lessons. Whether a student of American History or Business Leadership -- this is a good read...

A noteworthy book which reflects upon the revolutionary ideas, war, and founding of America through the lens of effective leadership. It clearly and logically breaks down lessons through historical examples and remains reflective on how applicable they are to modern leadership roles and influence over people and organizations.
While a good book (3.5 stars?), it’s held back by the frequent off topic ramblings which felt more like the author wanted to tell a neat story about the subjects and tried to squeeze it in somewhere. It could be shortened by a lot without losing any of its meaning or impact, but still a recommended book for leaders.

I really liked this book. If you like history and enjoy reading about management, then you will like it also. There is a lot to learn from the founding fathers. They say the potential in the union of the states and risked everything to bring their vision to fruition. They had a vision and were able to get others to follow along.
I would have given it 5 stars but there were some repeating stories that didn't flow and some of the connections to leadership where a stretch. The overall outline is great.

I like the way he presents each chapter by extracting the leadership qualities and actions in the chapter examples. It is very clearly written and keeps your interest throughout.

In this election year (2020) it should be required reading for all voters to understand what true leadership qualities are.

Thoughtful, engaging and full of common sense and food for thought.

Honestly, I read through it very quickly and didn't take the time to enjoy it. I should probably reread it so I appreciate it more. I did like the narratives that were included to demonstrate the leadership principles being explained.

I had just finished a leadership class when I was introduced to this book. Being a Virginian I was interested in the subject matter, but arrogant enough to think it was below my level. Donald Phillips does a marvelous job exploring the leadership characteristics of our founding fathers. By exploring their leadership abilities of getting things accomplished you gain a fabulous understanding of them and how our country began. For me, this book the best reasons why George Washington became our first president.

Great book focusing on the major events upon the creation of the USA and how leadership from men like Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Paine, and etc, guided the new country through some of the toughest times.

READ DEC 2009

Good balance between US history and leadership principles. Best quote: "the principles of leadership are nothing less than the principles of humanity: treating people with respect and dignity; raising awareness; creating a vision and involving others; bonding together through alliances and teamwork; risking all; learning from mistakes; refusing to lose; inspiring rather than coercing; listening; compromising; caring; ever changing and ever achieving" (p. 250).