Freedom's Forge

What is covered in most textbooks in a page—the crucial role of American industry in winning World War II—takes up the entirety of Herman's (Gandhi & Churchill: The Epic Rivalry That Destroyed an Empire and Forged Our Age) fascinating volume. As he has in past books, Herman here approaches a chapter of history by investigating the personalities who shaped it. He brings to life William Knudsen of General Motors and shipbuilder Henry J. Kiser via their interactions with FDR. It would be easy to overwhelm readers with recountings of the extraordinary number of planes, ships, or tanks produced. However, Herman will keep his audience thoroughly engaged as the war unfolds from the perspective of U.S. industry and its regulators. At a time when Wall Street is often pitted against Main Street, readers will be surprised by the cooperative relations forged between government and industry during World War II.