The first study on Woodrow Wilson as commander in chief during the Great War, this volume analyzes Wilson's management style before the war, his diplomacy and his final demise in his battle with the Senate. It considers the war as representing the collapse of Western traditional virtues and examines Wilson's attempt to restore them. Emphasizing the American war effort on the domestic front, it also discusses Wilson's rise to power, his education, career, and work as governor as necessary steps in his formation. The authors deal honestly and critically with the controversial racism that characterized this brilliant but limited career.

Wilson provided many precedents for future war presidents from FDR to Trump. Those who are interested in the development of the war powers over the last century will find essential lessons in Wilson's tenure as commander in chief.