This work investigates the nature of greatness through the lives and contributions of six influential American figures. Bruce Bliven, a journalist and editor, utilizes biographical sketches to examine how these individuals shaped the intellectual and social landscape of the United States. By focusing on figures ranging from political architects to social reformers, the author constructs a framework for understanding the qualities that define historical impact.

Critics often note that the book serves as an accessible entry point for those interested in the foundational figures of American thought. Experts highlight the author's journalistic approach, which prioritizes narrative clarity over dense academic analysis.