This biography investigates the complex political legacy and personal motivations of Woodrow Wilson, the twenty-eighth President of the United States. Glen Jeansonne, a historian specializing in American political figures, utilizes primary source documents and archival research to construct a comprehensive portrait of Wilson. The work examines the tension between Wilson's idealistic internationalism and the pragmatic realities of domestic governance during a period of global upheaval.

Scholars and historians frequently cite this work as a balanced, accessible entry point for understanding the complexities of the Wilson administration. It is widely regarded as a foundational text for students and general readers seeking a concise overview of Wilson's impact on twentieth-century American foreign policy.