"The Man" by Irving Wallace Is as Relevant as Ever

I believe it was in Civics class my freshman year that we were assigned to read The Man by Irving Wallace. Though I didn't know it at the time, Wallace was a bestselling author most notable for his political fiction. This novel, published in 1964, made such impression on me  that I recall the story and some of its scenes to this day. To a certain extent it has served as a lens through which I view the political games played in Washington D.C., and why so many of us are suspicious of the media's motives or reliability,

The central character is Douglas Dilman, a quiet and unassuming President pro tempore of the Senate who finds himself thrust into the highest office in the land after a series of unforeseen events leads to the sudden deaths of the President and Vice President. By default Dllman, for better or worse, becomes the first African American President of the United States. From the outset he faces unprecedented challenges, both from within the political establishment and the society at large.

Dilman is a reluctant leader who becomes a symbol of hope and change. Kermit Madigan, his chief antagonist, is a Senator who represents the old guard and embodies the entrenched prejudices, deep-seated racism and resistance to change that Dilman must confront. (EdNote: The book came out the year after Dr. Martin Luther King's March on Washington and before the assassinations of Malcolm X, Dr. King and Bobby Kennedy.

There are also a diverse array of secondary characters, each representing different facets of American society, from loyal aides and family members to political adversaries and ordinary citizens.

What remains fresh in my mind are the lengths to which President Dilman's enemies will go to discredit his character, including fabricating a bogus rape charge.  And the media goes right along with it, amplifying every aspect of this preposterous story.  

Wallace highlights the harsh realities of racism in America. Through Dilman's experiences, he hammers home the societal attitudes that African Americans have faced, both in politics and everyday life.

The novel examines the nature of power and the burdens of leadership. Dilman's ascent to the presidency forces him to confront his own doubts and insecurities, while also dealing with the expectations and prejudices of others. (I'm curious what kinds of doubts and insecurities President Biden and former president Trump wrestle with at the end of the day when they kick off their shoes.)

The Man underscores the potential for change and progress in society. Dilman's presidency, though fictional, serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that progress is possible, even in the face of overwhelming odds. I'm curious how many of our 1960's classmates imagined that we would see a black president in our lifetimes,

I remember the book being engaging and accessible. Complex political scenarios and social issues were understandable and compelling. His writing kept me hooked  from start to finish, though I was too young to appreciate how he achieved this effect. I only know that it made an impact on me and I've had it come to mind numerous times while following Beltway politics over the years.

What books did you read in school that have remained relevant for you or opened your eyes in one way or another?