Historians, much like tour guides of ancient Rome, have a unique ability to reflect on key events and craft a meaningful narrative for a wide audience. Talmage Boston, a biographer and historian, has demonstrated this skill in his latest work, “How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons From Our Top Presidents.”
Using the concept of “applied history,” Boston analyzed the leadership traits of the eight most influential presidents to identify 24 key qualities that can benefit individuals in business and politics. His goal is to provide valuable insights for aspiring and current leaders looking to enhance their skills.
In discussing his personal Mount Rushmore of presidents, Boston highlighted Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan, along with George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. He suggested expanding the tribute to include all eight, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of great leaders.
However, when reflecting on recent presidents, Boston expressed disappointment in the lack of effective leadership. He critiqued the performances of George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden, noting various shortcomings in their leadership approaches.
Looking towards the future, Boston expressed hope for a new generation of leaders who embody the traits discussed in his book. He mentioned former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley as a potential strong presidential candidate for the GOP, while offering a less favorable assessment of Vice President Kamala Harris.
Ultimately, Boston’s work serves as a call to action for individuals to aspire to greatness and strive for effective leadership in order to navigate the challenges of the present and shape a better future for the country.
