Our fifth episode in our series on the presidency features A.J. Baime and his book, "Dewey Defeats Truman: The 1948 Election and the Battle for America's Soul." Baime explains how President Truman revived his political fortunes with the most aggressive campaign in American history. He embarks on a "Whistlestop Tour" pledging to visit every county in the country. The "common man" president insists that victory is inevitable, even though the newspaper pundits considered him a goner. Baime describes Truman's personal strength in willing himself back into contention, as he argues in favor of Civil Rights, the recognition of Israel, and pledges to fight for everyday people. Especially in an era where COVID has precluded traditional campaigning, Truman's inspirational story is a reminder that politics is about people.

AJ Baime is available on social media @facebook/AJBaime

Axelbank Reports History and Today is available on Twitter and Instagram @axelbankhistory

Here is a schedule of release dates for episodes as part of our series on the presidency:

***September 29th: James Poniewozik - "Audience of One: Donald Trump, Television and the Fracturing of America"

***September 29th: Steven Levingston - "Barack and Joe: The Making of an Extraordinary Partnership"

***October 6th: Stephen Knott - "The Lost Soul of the American Presidency: The Decline into Demagoguery and the Prospects for Renewal"

***October 13th: Lindsay Chervinsky - "The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution"

***October 20th: A.J. Baime - "Dewey Defeats Truman: The 1948 Election and the Battle for America's Soul"

***October 27th: Jeremi Suri - "The Impossible Presidency: The Rise and Fall of America's Highest Office"

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