Ike and Dick

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A groundbreaking narrative explores the complex relationship between Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon, highlighting their political and personal ties over nearly twenty years. Despite enduring slights, misunderstandings, and differences in age and temperament, their connection shaped both of their presidencies. The author, Jeffrey Frank, presents a nuanced view of Nixon as a strategic yet increasingly perplexing figure, while depicting Eisenhower as a legendary soldier who, despite his warm demeanor, struggled to grasp the societal changes in his country. Both men shared traits of intelligence, cunning, and a reluctance to confront each other directly. Through extensive interviews and archival research, the book traces their relationship amid a backdrop of crises, particularly as Nixon's ambitions intensified and Eisenhower faced serious health issues. As the 1968 election loomed and the Vietnam War intensified national tensions, Eisenhower, despite his own doubts and declining health, ultimately supported Nixon’s bid for the presidency. This decision was notably influenced by a personal connection: the romance between Eisenhower’s grandson David and Nixon’s daughter Julie, illustrating the intertwining of family and politics during a pivotal moment in American history.