“[A] masterly new biography . . . [of] one of the most influential and polarizing American politicians of the nineteenth century.”

– The New Yorker

“This magnificent biography finally provides what William Henry Seward so justly deserves—a full, terrific and complex portrait of his endlessly fascinating life.”

– Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of Team of Rivals

“Walter Stahr’s new biography offers an overdue reminder of the much broader scope of [Seward’s] work.”

– The Economist

“Stahr gives Seward his due in this intelligent and illuminating biography of one of the most important political figures of the 19th century. . . . He wasn't just Lincoln's indispensable man; throughout his career Seward was an indispensable man to the nation as well.”

– Huffington Post

“This formidable figure has finally gained the biographer he’s long deserved…a first-rate biography.”

– Publishers Weekly, starred review

“This highly readable biography, based on thorough research in original sources, effectively shows that Seward deserves more fame as a patriot-statesman than he has traditionally enjoyed.”

– The Wall Street Journal

"Politician, diplomat, raconteur, a figure of controversy and power, Seward has finally found a biographer equal to his importance.”

– James McPherson, author of Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era

“In this fine volume, Walter Stahr has rendered a signal service by resurrecting the life of the often neglected William Henry Seward. His sweeping portrait of the long-standing Secretary of State is always lucid, engaging, scrupulously fair-minded, and deeply researched. This biography stands as a valuable addition to the rich literature of American politics in the mid-nineteenth century.”

– Ron Chernow, author of Washington: A Life