This monumental work offers a comprehensive narrative history of the American presidency from the institution of the office in 1789 through the end of Bill Clinton's first term, including 1996 election results. Each chapter is essentially a biography of an admin., not just the man who held the office. The authors, all noted experts on the presidency, analyze the social, political, economic, & foreign policy decisions of each administration & their effects on both domestic & international affairs. Each chapter features a portrait of the president as well as an up-to-date annotated bibliography. Also surveys the roles the First Ladies have played. Illustrated.