Will I love Citizens of London?

In the 1930s, Republicans across America heaped criticism on President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, which they claimed would wither free enterprise and damage the economy. They labeled him a “socialist”—or worse.

Among the Republicans who broke with this broad Republican assault on FDR was John G. Winant, the Republican governor of New Hampshire. Winant gave up state politics to establish FDR’s Social Security program, and after the start of World War II Winant became FDR’s ambassador to London.

Winant’s courage, first in breaking with his party to join FDR, and then helping Winston Churchill and the British people… show more.

Did you know John Gilbert Winant was an American ambassador to Great Britain during World War II? I didn’t, until I read this engaging chronicle about three Americans’ tireless efforts to gain U.S. support for England during the bleak years preceding the attack on Pearl Harbor. Edward R. Murrow, urbane international radio correspondent, was better known; as was W. Averell Harriman, suave, wealthy head of Lend-Lease. Steadfast in their commitment to the brave island nation and her sturdy people, they championed England’s cause when America Firsters held FDR at bay. My favorite was idealistic Gil Winant, endearing himself to… show more.