"Master of the Senate" by Robert A. Caro is the third volume in Caro's biography of Lyndon B. Johnson, focusing on his time in the Senate from 1948 to 1960. Caro explores Johnson's rise to power during a pivotal era in American politics, illustrating how he maneuvered through the complex legislative landscape. The book delves deeply into Johnson's relationships with other senators, showcasing his extraordinary skills in persuasion and negotiation that helped him achieve significant legislative victories.
The author provides a detailed account of the political environment of the Senate, emphasizing the intense competition and the intricate dynamics among senators. Caro highlights key legislative battles, including civil rights and anti-poverty initiatives, revealing Johnson's dual nature as both a shrewd political operator and a man deeply invested in social reform. The narrative captures the struggles and triumphs that defined Johnson’s Senate career, along with the larger historical context of the period.