Perspective

Author Randolph B. Campbell is a professor of history at the University of North Texas. He has written several books on 19th century Texas and the South in general. He is thus eminently qualified to discuss Houston, especially in regards to larger issues like Texas independence and secession.

Campbell takes an objective and impassioned look at Houston, pointing out personal failings such as alcoholism and political failures such as his failed bid for the governorship along the way. However, Campbell also admires Houston's life, especially Houston's philosophy of thoughtfulness, moderation, and caution. In the final section of the book, Campbell talks about Houston's practical nature, and how this practicality allowed Houston to navigate some very rough times in Texas' early period. Campbell notes the irony that such a grounded and practical man was involved in a lifetime of rather romantic adventures, such as his leadership of a ragtag...