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The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox: A Year in the Life of a Supreme Court Clerk in FDR's Washington,Used
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My name will survive as long as man survives, because I am writing the greatest diary that has ever been written. I intend to surpass Pepys as a diarist.'When John Frush Knox (19071997) wrote these words, he was in the middle of law school, and his attempt at surpassing Pepyspart scrapbook, part social commentary, and part recollectionhad already reached 750 pages. His efforts as a chronicler might have landed in a family attic had he not secured an eminent position after graduation as law clerk to Justice James C. McReynoldsarguably one of the most disagreeable justices to sit on the Supreme Courtduring the tumultuous year when President Franklin D. Roosevelt tried to 'pack' the Court with justices who would approve his New Deal agenda. Knox's memoir instead emerges as a record of one of the most fascinating periods in American history.The Forgotten Memoir of John Knoxedited by Dennis J. Hutchinson and David J. Garrowoffers a candid, at times nave, insider's view of the showdown between Roosevelt and the Court that took place in 1937. At the same time, it marvelously portrays a Washington culture now long gone. Although the new Supreme Court building had been open for a year by the time Knox joined McReynolds' staff, most of the justices continued to work from their homes, each supported by a small staff. Knox, the epitome of the overzealous and officious young man, after landing what he believes to be a dream position, continually fears for his job under the notoriously rude (and nakedly racist) justice. But he soon develops close relationships with the justice's two black servants: Harry Parker, the messenger who does 'everything but breathe' for the justice, and Mary Diggs, the maid and cook. Together, they plot and sidestep around their employer's idiosyncrasies to keep the household running while history is made in the Court.A substantial foreword by Dennis Hutchinson and David Garrow sets the stage, and a gallery of period photos of Knox, McReynolds, and other figures of the time gives life to this engaging account, which like no other recaptures life in Washington, D.C., when it was still a genteel southern town.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox'? A: The main theme of 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' revolves around the personal and professional experiences of John Knox as a Supreme Court clerk during a pivotal time in American history, particularly focusing on the tensions between President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Supreme Court.
- Q: Who edited 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox'? A: The memoir was edited by Dennis J. Hutchinson and David J. Garrow, who provide context and insights into Knox's experiences.
- Q: Is 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' suitable for history enthusiasts? A: 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' is highly suitable for history enthusiasts, as it offers a unique insider's perspective on the Supreme Court during the New Deal era and the complexities of Washington, D.C. politics.
- Q: What kind of insights can readers expect from Knox's memoir? A: Readers can expect candid insights into the workings of the Supreme Court, personal anecdotes, and reflections on the social and political dynamics of 1937 Washington, D.C.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is available in paperback binding, making it lightweight and portable for easy reading.
- Q: How many pages are in 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox'? A: 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' contains 312 pages, providing a comprehensive look at Knox's experiences.
- Q: When was 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' published? A: 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' was published on September 1, 2004.
- Q: Does the memoir include photographs? A: Yes, the memoir includes a gallery of period photographs of John Knox, Justice McReynolds, and other notable figures from that time, enhancing the reading experience.
- Q: What can readers learn about the Supreme Court's dynamics from this book? A: Readers can learn about the interpersonal dynamics within the Supreme Court, particularly during a time of significant political pressure from the executive branch, as well as the challenges faced by clerks like Knox.
- Q: Is this book considered a primary source for understanding the New Deal era? A: Yes, 'The Forgotten Memoir of John Knox' serves as a valuable primary source for understanding the New Deal era and the historical context of the Supreme Court's role during that time.