The Years of Lyndon Johnson Books in Order

Robert Caro traces Lyndon Johnson’s rise from the poverty of the Texas Hill Country to New Deal Washington. The first volume examines the experiences, relentless ambition, and political methods that shaped his congressional career and initial unsuccessful Senate campaign.

Following Johnson’s failed 1941 Senate campaign, Caro examines his wartime record, growing fortune, and continued pursuit of power. The volume culminates in the fiercely disputed 1948 election against Coke Stevenson, investigating the methods behind Johnson’s narrow victory.

Caro follows Johnson’s twelve years in the Senate, examining how he mastered an institution governed by seniority and custom. Detailed accounts of alliances, procedural tactics, and civil rights legislation show how he transformed personal influence into legislative power.

Covering 1958 through 1964, Caro follows Johnson from his presidential ambitions into the frustrations of the vice presidency. Kennedy’s assassination abruptly puts him in command, and the volume examines how he stabilizes the government and begins advancing his legislative program.