First in Peace

Introduction

O Brien's book on Jefferson widely regarded as one of the most systematic deconstructions of the myths surrounding the Sage of Montecello ever written.

Discussion

In his book on First in Peace, O'Brien seeks to explain Washington's terms as president and the effect; they had on the course of the country once his terms were over. The book is short - 148 pages excluding index, notes and foreword (written by Christopher Hitchens) - yet despite its brevity, the book provides an insightful and detailed overview of its topic. O'Brien understands the characters of the time, and his distance as an Irishman ...