The President/Hugh Sidey
There have been moments along the difficult presidential journey of Jimmy Carter when he seemed close to fulfilling his own prophecy that he could "achieve greatness." He recognized the gravity of the energy problem early. He had the courage to see the peril of inflation and change his course. In the glades of Camp David, when his goodness, his determination and his sincerity brought Menachem Begin and Anwar Sadat together for peace, Carter seemed ready to move beyond historical inhibitions.
His sudden decision to normalize relations with China was another bold stroke beyond convention. His skillful orchestration...