This is a major reference work on the presidency.... Essential. A welcome updating of a standard work ... An excellent reference. Now updated with articles on Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and the role of the First Lady. This monumental work offers a comprehensive narrative history of the American presidency from the institution of the office in 1789 through the end of Bill Clinton’s first term, including 1996 election results. Each chapter is essentially a biography of an administration, not just the man who held the office. The authors, all noted experts on the presidency, analyze the social, political, economic, and foreign policy decisions of each administration and their effects on both domestic and international affairs. Each chapter features a portrait of the president as well as an up-to-date annotated bibliography. Also surveys the roles the First Ladies have played.