The Statesman as Thinker

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This book explores the role of the thoughtful statesman in maintaining free and lawful political communities, aiming to clarify distinctions between the noble statesman, the average politician, and the despotic figure who undermines freedom. It critiques the reduction of politics to a mere "struggle for power," which obscures the true essence of political life. Through insightful portraits and reflections, the book highlights statesmen who fought to uphold civilized freedom during crises: Solon addressing class conflict in ancient Athens; Cicero defending republican liberty against Caesar's tyranny; Burke combating Jacobin fanaticism in revolutionary France; Lincoln preserving the American republic and abolishing slavery; Churchill opposing Nazi and Communist despotism; de Gaulle defending France during WWII; and Havel resisting Communist totalitarianism before leading the Czech Republic with dignity. Additionally, it touches on figures like Washington, Pyotr Stolypin, Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, and Nelson Mandela. The book examines the writings and rhetoric of these statesmen, emphasizing the blend of magnanimity and moderation that characterizes the ideal statesman. This admirable combination, rooted in classical and Christian wisdom, reflects a noble commitment to safeguarding civilization against destructive regimes and ideologies.