Impeachment by Jon Meacham & Timothy Naftali & Peter Baker & Jeffrey A. Engel Summary

Impeachment: An American History examines the three U.S. presidential impeachments—Andrew Johnson (1868), Richard Nixon (1974), and Bill Clinton (1998)—and the framers’ constitutional intent. Co-authored by Jon Meacham, Timothy Naftali, Peter Baker, and Jeffrey A. Engel, it argues impeachment is inherently political, shaped by Congress’s dynamics, public opinion, and historical context. The book highlights lessons for modern governance, notably during the Trump era, while stressing the importance of bipartisan consensus.

This book is ideal for history enthusiasts, political scholars, and voters seeking clarity on presidential accountability. Its blend of narrative storytelling and constitutional analysis appeals to readers interested in how past impeachments inform today’s polarized climate. Educators and students will also benefit from its detailed case studies and insights into separation of powers.

Yes. Critics praise its rigorous research, balanced perspectives, and timely relevance. The authors—Pulitzer winners and presidential historians—combine academic depth with accessible prose, making complex legal and political concepts engaging. It’s particularly valuable for understanding impeachment’s role in checking executive power amid modern partisan divides.

Jon Meacham’s section reveals Johnson’s 1868 impeachment as a political clash over Reconstruction. Radical Republicans, frustrated by Johnson’s racist policies and vetoes, sought removal despite lacking clear “high crimes.” The Senate acquittal underscored impeachment’s limitations as a partisan tool, emphasizing the need for criminal conduct over policy disputes.

Timothy Naftali details Nixon’s obstruction of justice and abuse of power during Watergate. Unlike Johnson, Nixon faced bipartisan condemnation, with evidence so overwhelming he resigned before Senate trial. This case exemplifies impeachment’s success when grounded in constitutional violations and cross-party agreement.

Peter Baker argues Clinton’s 1998 impeachment centered on personal misconduct, not constitutional breaches. Clinton framed charges as partisan attacks, convincing the public and Senate to dismiss them. The case highlights how public perception and partisan loyalty can overshadow legal merits.

Jeffrey A. Engel explores the framers’ intent, noting impeachment was designed to address abuses like foreign collusion or undermining democracy—not policy disagreements. The authors stress that impeachment requires serious offenses validated by public and congressional consensus, avoiding trivial or purely political use.

Written during Trump’s presidency, the book warns against weaponizing impeachment for partisan gains. It cautions that without clear crimes and bipartisan support, removal efforts risk eroding institutional legitimacy. The Nixon case is contrasted with Clinton’s to underscore this balance.

Some reviewers note it avoids explicit commentary on Trump’s impeachment, focusing instead on historical precedents. Others argue it could delve deeper into how media and public opinion shape impeachment outcomes. However, its analytical neutrality is widely praised as a strength.

Fans of Jon Meacham’s American Lion or Jeffrey Engel’s When the World Seemed New will recognize similar rigorous scholarship. Unlike single-subject biographies, this collaborative effort blends multiple perspectives into a cohesive guide on presidential accountability.

The book emphasizes Alexander Hamilton’s warning that impeachment is a “political” process. Another key takeaway: “Impeachment is a tool of last resort, not a routine electoral challenge.” These themes recur to underscore its cautious approach to presidential removal.

It interprets the phrase as serious abuses of power that threaten democracy, such as obstruction or foreign interference. The authors reject narrow legalistic definitions, arguing impeachment must adapt to evolving political norms while respecting constitutional guardrails.