All the Presidents' Money

Reading Megan Gorman's All the Presidents' Money is almost like peering into the private vaults of American presidents. Fascinatingly, the book provides real insight into how those who led America managed their money and how financial decisions influenced the course of their respective political lives.

It is divided into three parts: the first part covers the personal financial strategies of leaders such as Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Herbert Hoover, and Dwight Eisenhower. Each story begins with a different perspective: Thomas Jefferson's planning for the future or Abraham Lincoln's emphasis on the importance of education.

In the second part, "Money and Meaning," Gorman explores the financial confidence of various presidents, including the frugality of Gerald Ford and Calvin Coolidge. This section is engaging because it shows how the leaders' value systems influenced their financial decisions.

The third and final part, "The Wealth Builders," narrates stories that reflect the habits of leaders who wanted to build their fortunes. For example, George Washington's business acumen is discussed at length, as is Lady Bird Johnson's bold decision to buy a radio station.

Megan is a master at managing other people's finances and the founder of Chequers Financial Management, one of America's top 500 registered investment advisory firms. She attended Bryn Mawr College, where she studied history, and Rutgers School of Law, where she also studied law. Megan has worked at Goldman Sachs and BNY Mellon Wealth Management, and she is noted as one of the top female wealth advisers in America.

This is not merely a history compilation book but rather one that shows how each leader's decisions were personal and reflective, particularly in handling money. For instance, Thomas Jefferson's story illustrates someone who planned for his future, while Franklin D. Roosevelt's risky investments reflect boldness.

Megan Gorman uses a simplified yet engrossing style of writing. The complicated questions of finance seem so easy that you might find yourself thinking, "Gosh, I should do that, too!"

Whether you’re interested in history or financial knowledge, this book is for you. Megan Gorman skillfully illuminates the lives of presidents from financial perspectives that are both informative and inspiring. The book highlights that, at the end of the day, money matters to everyone, including American presidents.

This review reflects my personal opinion, and I believe this book is worth reading!