"This is the first single volume to focus on the presidencies of both James A. Garfield and Chester A. Arthur. Drawing from a host of studies on the foreign and domestic policies of the nation during the Gilded Age, as well as from his own primary research, the author presents a somewhat revisionist look at Garfield and Arthur--revisionist in that he gives the reader a renewed appreciation of both men. Far from being cynical spoilsmen or naive incompetents, individuals whose presidencies provide studies in ineptitude, Garfield and Arthur emerge as men of considerable ability. While making no claims of greatness, Doenecke maintains that each was a significant transitional figure, playing a crucial role as the institution of the presidency moved from the weak leadership of Andrew Johnson to the forceful direction of Theodore Roosevelt." --Publisher.

Institutions in transition -- The uneasy victory -- A troubled president -- Mr. Secretary Blaine -- No longer Chet -- Scandal and reform -- "Arthur is for us": the president and the South -- Mr. Frelinghuysen's inheritance -- To far-flung shores -- Trade and tariffs -- The summing up.