The Hidden History of the White House: Power Struggles, Scandals, and Defining Moments

Presented by the hit podcast American History Tellers, The Hidden History of the White House reveals the behind-the-scenes stories of some of the most dramatic events in American history—set right inside the house where it happened

For more than two centuries, the White House in Washington, DC, has been the stage for some of the most climactic moments in American political history. Its walls and portraits have witnessed fierce power struggles, history-altering decisions, shocking scandals, and intimate moments among U.S. Presidents, the First Family, their guests, and the staff.

In the signature narrative nonfiction style of the popular American History Tellers podcast, The Hidden History of the White House places readers in the shoes of historical figures—from power brokers to everyday Americans alike—who lived through pivotal events that shaped America.

As a fly on the wall of history, you’ll find yourself immersed in:

• Andrew Jackson’s disastrous 1829 inauguration, when a mob overran and trashed the White House.
• Woodrow Wilson’s stroke, which led to his wife Edith serving as shadow president during the final months of his administration.
• President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s clandestine journey to Washington to dodge an assassination plot on the eve of the Civil War.
• Winston Churchill’s wartime sojourn at the White House, during which he and FDR developed plans to defeat Germany.
• Barack Obama’s decision to green-light the Navy SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden.

Equal parts social, political, and cultural history—written and presented in the accessible and engaging style for which American History Tellers is famous—The Hidden History of the White House offers readers a rare opportunity to live within the halls of the Executive Mansion, and explore some of the extraordinary people and events that made America what it is today.

“This accessible, well-researched, and generously illustrated book will appeal not only to history buffs, but to anyone interested in the colorful stories—and characters—associated with America’s most storied structure, which 'stands as a living monument to the towering figures, hairbreadth moments of crisis, and euphoric triumphs that have defined our country.' Page-turning, illuminating reading.” - Kirkus Reviews

“[The Hidden History of the White House] finds the edifice at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue holding a history deeper than a mere address conveys. [Author Corey] Mead shares what transpired within those walls, the heart of the building’s history, focusing on people beyond presidents. . . . The scope of Mead's narrative . . . will intrigue readers of all sorts.” - Booklist