Preview
  • The Confidante

  • The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America
  • By: Christopher C. Gorham
  • Narrated by: Ann Richardson
  • Length: 14 hrs and 19 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (84 ratings)

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The Confidante

By: Christopher C. Gorham
Narrated by: Ann Richardson
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Publisher's summary

Though Anna Rosenberg emerged from modest immigrant beginnings, equipped with only a high school education, she was the real power behind national policies critical to America winning the war and prospering afterwards. Astonishingly, her story remains largely forgotten.

With a disarming mix of charm and Tammany-hewn toughness, Rosenberg began her career in public relations in 1920s Manhattan. As FDR's unofficial adviser, Rosenberg soon wielded enormous influence—no less potent for being subtle. Her extraordinary career continued after his death.

By 1950, she was tapped to become the assistant secretary of defense—the highest position ever held by a woman in the US military—prompting Senator Joe McCarthy to wage an unsuccessful smear campaign against her. Until the end of her life, Rosenberg fought tirelessly for causes from racial integration to women's equality to national healthcare.

More than the story of one remarkable woman, The Confidante explores who gets to be at the forefront of history, and why. In this inspiring, impeccably researched, and revelatory book, Christopher C. Gorham at last affords Anna Rosenberg the recognition she so richly deserves.

©2023 Christopher C. Gorham (P)2023 Tantor
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What listeners say about The Confidante

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A remarkable woman in US twentieth century history

A good bio of a remarkable woman who had significant influence in the middle of the previous century for US government activities, especially concerning labor relations, war production, and support for military personnel during and after WWII and the Korean war.

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How have I never heard of this heroine?

A bit of a slow start but hang in there. This book is worth the time and credits. One of the best listens I’ve had in years.

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Wow! A must read

An incredible woman and story of a most influential person in American history. such positive impact on the lives of Americans. Everyone should read/listen to this account.
I loved it!

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Compelling and too-little known story about an amazing, important American

Great narrator, beautifully written, this book tells the story of a uniquely talented, accomplished and savvy woman whose life and work improved our lives—and whose story needs to be told and appreciated by all Americans.

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Amazing woman!

(As posted in Goodreads)
Most of my readers know that I am not a history buff, so it should come as no surprise that I didn't start out liking this book much; the first part was straight history and no personality. But there's a guide into it, it started actually describing the individual personalities better, and I was blown away! I had never heard of Anna Rosenberg, despite the fact that she was clearly extremely important in the governments of a few presidents (notably FDR, LBJ, Eisenhower, and). She was extremely important in the integration of the military; she did a lot toward women's rights and recognition; she didn't work for herself but for the nation.
The book was absolutely fabulous, and in reintroduces the general public to an absolute fabulous personality and federal employee. She was well known in her time, but she has been totally forgotten.
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I definitely appreciate the book for making history decidedly more relatable to a non-history person.

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Fascinating account of all Anna Rosenberg did!!

I loved this book and only wish my parents were atill.alive so we could discuss all that Anna did to improve the way people were treated in our government and military while she worked with so many of our presidents. She really cared about all of those in the schools,military and government jobs, and the citizens of our country. She worked hard against segregation, discrimination against women, and prejudice of any kind! This was a great book.to read or.listen too! highly recommend!

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An encouraging read!

Anna was a trailblazer for women in politics. We need more of her kind; smart, dedicated, selfless, and with the goal of what was best for the citizens.

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Wow!

I really enjoy history and it was my favorite subject in school. I just do not remember learning about Anna. I truly enjoyed learning about her and what she did to help these United States that we live. Very, very good!!

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Wish Anna Marie Rosenberg was in Washington now

Amazing history of a woman who came to politics as an organizer of people. A confidant of FDR, she listened and talked bringing out the best people had. Sadly we don't value that kind of person today.

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A great biography of a woman all Americans know.

I love biographies of women, and history. This is an amazing story of a life in service to democracy, equality and labor rights. Highly recommend!

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