William F. Buckley Jr. (1925-2008) was a pivotal figure in American conservative thought, known as the founder of the National Review and the host of the TV debate program “Firing Line.” He significantly impacted the political landscape by influencing figures such as Joseph McCarthy, Barry Goldwater, and Ronald Reagan. A new biography titled “Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America,” authored by historian Sam Tanenhaus, explores Buckley’s life and the effects of his work on the Republican Party, leading to movements that eventually paved the way for the rise of Donald Trump.
The biography delves into Buckley’s upbringing and the prominent role his father, W.F. Buckley Sr., played in shaping his worldview. W.F. Buckley Sr. was a Texas lawyer and oil speculator whose ambitious ventures brought both fortune and challenges, including a significant loss during the Mexican Revolution. Despite setbacks, he demonstrated resilience by relocating his family to New York and establishing a successful oil company.
Tanenhaus presents an intricate family portrait, highlighting the dynamics within the Buckley household, where William F. Buckley Jr. grew up among nine siblings. Their home in Connecticut was a place filled with vibrant interactions, emphasizing both the complexity and warmth of family life that influenced Buckley’s later ideologies.
This biography not only captures the essence of Buckley’s life but also serves as a lens to understand the evolution of conservative thought in America. Tanenhaus’s exploration reveals how personal experiences and familial relationships shaped a man who would become a towering figure in political commentary and the conservative movement.
For those interested in the interplay between personal history and political ideology, “Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America” offers valuable insights into the making of an influential American thinker.