The Supreme Court justices appointed by Franklin D. Roosevelt navigated profound constitutional challenges during periods of immense national upheaval. Noah Feldman's work examines the complex relationships between four key justices, their interactions with President Roosevelt, and their collective impact on the evolving American Constitution through the turbulent eras of the Great Depression, World War II, and the early Cold War. The book delves into the pivotal constitutional debates of the 1940s and 1950s, drawing connections to contemporary legal and political landscapes.

The book is recognized for its detailed examination of pivotal figures in American legal history and their impact on constitutional law. Feldman's analysis connects historical legal battles to present-day issues, offering a framework for understanding the enduring relevance of the Supreme Court's decisions during the Roosevelt era. The work is noted for its exploration of the intricate relationships between the justices and President Roosevelt, as well as among the justices themselves, providing a comprehensive view of this critical period in American jurisprudence.