Warren G. Magnuson and the Shaping of Twentieth-Century America

For years, Washington was well served in the U.S. Senate by "Scoop and Maggie," that is, Henry "Scoop" Jackson and Warren Magnuson. However, while Jackson twice sought the presidency and has been the subject of at least two biographies, Magnuson has been largely forgotten. In fact, he was never a household word nationwide. Fortunately, journalist Shelby Scates has given Maggie the kind of work his memory deserves and his admirers have wanted. This very well researched and documented biography goes back to Magnuson's roots in North Dakota, to his activism in the leftist Washington Commonwealth Federation in the 30's, to his long and distinguished congressional career, and, finally, to his narrow defeat in the Reagan revoluntion of 1980. The lover of liquor and beautiful women always managed to remain a dedicated senator who was respected, even loved, by his colleagues. Maggie looked like a good ol' boy, but was a diehard liberal who advocated civil rights, consumer rights, and worker rights. America is a better place because of Warren Magnuson. Our knowledge of him would have been remiss, were in not for this book.

This is an accurate and entertaining book about the life and deeds of Warren Magnuson. It tells of the remarkable things he accomplished for Washington State. Everyone should be aware of his great contributions. The author, Shelby Scates did a remarkable and accurate job in portraying Magnusons accomplishments and colorful personality.

I believe that any freshman legislator and all students studying the history of Washington State should read this historical novel. It should be part of the corriculum of all schools in Washington State and be availabe in all of the state libraries.

I lived through the Warren Magnuson era. What that man did for the State of Washington was absolutely remarkable. The book should be part of every history class. It was factual, and people in the North West, for generations, should know what he did and how he accomplished his deeds. I compliment Mr. Scates on his terrific detail, fairness, and accurateness Bravo! 5 stars!

"For those interested in the state of today's nation, this book is an education and a reminder of the powerhouse reign of Magnuson and his compatriot, Henry Jackson" Gene Woodwick. The North Coast News.