Lawyer and historian Talmage Boston recently published his book, "How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons from Our Top Presidents." The book delves into the important leadership qualities of America's eight great presidents, offering tips for current leaders. Critics praised its ability to extract valuable lessons from these presidents' vast historical records.

Boston shifted from writing about baseball to presidential history, inspired by his lifelong interest in presidents, sparked by collecting presidential trading cards as a child.

America's Greatest Presidents and Their Leadership

In an interview, Boston explained that he wrote the book to delve into what made America's greatest presidents successful, aiming to provide timeless leadership lessons applicable across various fields.

He credited the success of these presidents to important leadership qualities like honesty, trustworthiness, and good communication. Using Abraham Lincoln as an example, Boston emphasized Lincoln's innovative strategies and understanding of people's feelings, which gained him respect from his doubtful cabinet members and helped him lead well during the Civil War.

When asked about Dwight Eisenhower, Boston praised his decisive actions during the Suez Canal Crisis in 1956, where Eisenhower opposed the Anglo-French-Israeli invasion to prevent potential Soviet retaliation and maintain global stability. Eisenhower's ability to play hardball ensured a swift resolution.

Boston also speculated how these presidents would view today's challenges. He said Washington and Jefferson would view today's political divisions as less significant than their own challenges, promoting mutual respect and civil discussions. Reagan, known for his optimism and belief in America's greatness, would urge maintaining positivity and confidence in overcoming obstacles.

Boston highlighted Reagan's achievements, like ending the Cold War, improving the economy, and restoring confidence in America. He emphasized that Reagan's popularity and electoral wins demonstrated his effective leadership.

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Theodore Roosevelt was a groundbreaking leader who addressed national labor disputes, monopolies, and nature protection. As a progressive Republican, he challenged traditional ways and congressional resistance by taking bold actions that left lasting effects on the country. He is noted for his intelligence, courage, and proactive approach, contributing to his high ranking among U.S. presidents.

Roosevelt's willingness to confront challenges and innovative solutions contrasted his predecessors' passive approaches. His early age upon assuming the presidency and significant achievements by age 50 were emphasized as a testament to his extraordinary capabilities.

When asked about Franklin D. Roosevelt's actions during WWII, Boston acknowledged FDR's shortcomings, particularly regarding Jewish refugees and Japanese-American internment, but defended his high historical ranking due to his leadership during the Great Depression and WWII. Boston also highlighted his ability to gauge public sentiment and use it to guide the country through crises. FDR's ability to win elections and communicate effectively was crucial to his leadership.

Boston discussed John F. Kennedy's handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis. JFK learned that relying solely on expert advice without independent evaluation could lead to disaster. By the time of the Cuban Missile Crisis, he took his advisers' recommendations with caution, considering all options before choosing his own strategy of a naval blockade and negotiation. This approach led to a favorable outcome.

Common Leadership Traits

Boston identified three common traits among the eight presidents he studied. First, they were 'great persuaders,' as they excelled at convincing others through oratory or personal interactions. Second, they were 'self-aware.' Boston stressed that they understood their strengths and weaknesses, strategically compensating for their deficiencies. Lastly, the presidents possessed the 'middle way approach.' They aimed to address the majority's concerns rather than catering to extreme political views, maintaining a balance that resonated with the broader public.

According to Boston, these traits enabled these leaders to navigate complex issues effectively and align public sentiment with their policies.

Boston stressed the importance of acknowledging presidential flaws, quoting Ken Burns and Mark Updegrove to highlight how understanding leaders' imperfections makes their achievements more relatable and instructive for aspiring leaders. This acknowledgment allows people to see that even flawed individuals can accomplish great things by leveraging their leadership traits.

Boston emphasized that his book aims to provide contemporary leaders with historical lessons and practical applications for leadership. Each chapter includes questions for readers to reflect on their own leadership traits and how they can improve their organizations by learning from past presidents' successes and failures.

He discussed the importance of recognizing historical figures' strengths and flaws, as covered in his book. Boston shared that he consulted top biographers to ensure accuracy in his conclusions, emphasizing the human aspect of these leaders and the application of historical lessons to modern leadership.

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