The Confidante

The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America

By: Christopher C. Gorham

Narrated by: Ann Richardson

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.
Sad
I definitely appreciate the book for making history decidedly more relatable to a non-history person.