Matthew Continetti

Informative history of conservative thought in America over the past 100 years. Especially helpful is the history of paleo- vs. neo-conservatism and the differences between these two subsets. I would've liked more definitions of some of the lesser-known subsets of conservative thought (e.g., "reform conservatism" was discussed but never really defined). The author presented the information fairly and without judgement; even the parts of conservatism with which he has previously publicly show more expressed his personal disagreements are discussed factually and neutrally. The final chapter was a great review of the book for those looking for a "TL;DR" summary. show less

A lot interesting history about the evolution of the American Right between 1920-2020. It would have been better for the general reader if there was less detail about secondary characters and philosophies. It is a tough slog in some places.

The Persecution of Sarah Palin: How the Elite Media Tried to Bring Down A Rising Star.
By Matthew Continetti
2009
Penguin

Although I hesitate defending Sarah Palin, this book is another example of how the media attempts to silence a strong minded women that speaks her mind. I do question alot of her policies, her motives and her decsions. And I disagree with alot, but not all of her choices as the Governor of Alaska. Her political moves were shrewd and underhanded, very self serving in many show more ways. But these were her beliefs and opinions. Attacking her husband, her family, her religious beliefs....using these things to attempt to taint people's opinion in a negative way, was unnecessary and had nothing to do with her career.
Palin did have many ethics complaints and accusations and paid many fines.
She is not an innocent. But her family is.

Very interesting, but opinionated slant on her political run....hard to put down... show less