Summary

"The Last Campaign: Robert F. Kennedy and 82 Days That Inspired America" by Thurston Clarke meticulously chronicles Robert F. Kennedy's brief but impactful 1968 presidential campaign. The book delves into the political climate of a nation deeply divided by the Vietnam War, racial tensions, and social unrest, and how Kennedy sought to address these moral wounds. Clarke paints a vivid picture of Kennedy's transformation from a figure often perceived as ruthless and opportunistic to a compassionate and empathetic leader who connected with a diverse range of Americans.

The narrative follows Kennedy's journey through key primary states, highlighting his evolving campaign strategy and the challenges he faced. From his initial reluctance to challenge President Lyndon Johnson to his growing conviction that he had a moral obligation to offer an alternative path, the book traces Kennedy's efforts to unite a fractured Democratic Party and heal a wounded nation. Clarke emphasizes Kennedy's focus on issues such as poverty, racial justice, and the need for national reconciliation, showcasing his commitment to addressing the root causes of America's divisions.

Central to the book is Kennedy's ability to connect with ordinary people, particularly the marginalized and disenfranchised. Clarke explores his deep empathy for the poor, Native Americans, and Chicano farmworkers, illustrating how these experiences shaped his policies and speeches. The book also examines the complexities of Kennedy's relationship with the press, his rivalry with Eugene McCarthy, and the constant threat of violence that loomed over his campaign.

Clarke details the pivotal moments of Kennedy's campaign, including his powerful speech in Indianapolis following Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination and his impassioned appeals for social justice in the face of opposition and adversity. The book culminates in a gripping account of Kennedy's assassination in Los Angeles and the outpouring of grief that followed, as millions mourned the loss of a leader who had inspired hope and offered a vision of a more just and equitable America. Clarke's book serves as a poignant reminder of Kennedy's enduring legacy and the unfulfilled promise of his campaign.