Chapter 11 Summary and Analysis

In this chapter, the political ambitions of a range of Bushes are explored. First, Prescott Bush, Jr. seems poised to follow in his father's footsteps but never makes the leap to politics. This is due to his own ambition as well as his inability to say the right thing in public. Prescott Bush makes many racist comments that are mirrored in many family members' behavior as well.

George H.W. Bush is also preparing for a political career. He raises his family in absolute frugality and tells his wife that they must keep to a strict budget. At the same time, George is adamant about creating a nestegg to fuel his political ambitions. He often uses money to promote his own personal life, including vacations with his other family members. Barbara, on the other hand, stays at home with the children...