In "Accidental Presidents," Jared Cohen embarks on a fascinating exploration of eight men who ascended to the pinnacle of American power not by the ballot, but by fate's unpredictable hand. With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Cohen unveils the profound impact these accidental commanders in chief had on the nation's trajectory and the world at large. From John Tyler, who inherited the presidency only to be ostracized by his party, to Lyndon B. Johnson, who navigated the tumultuous waters of Civil Rights and the Vietnam War, each of these leaders' stories is a testament to how the character and decisions of one individual can alter the course of history. Cohen delves into the circumstances that thrust these men into the Oval Office, revealing not just the political but the personal challenges they faced while steering the ship of state through uncharted waters. Whether it was Theodore Roosevelt breaking up trusts or Harry S. Truman making the monumental decision to use the atomic bomb, "Accidental Presidents" sheds light on the dramatic shifts in policy and ideology that defined their administrations. This book is not merely a collection of presidential biographies; it is a riveting examination of the power, limitations, and often unforeseen consequences of American presidential leadership. Through the stories of these eight men, Cohen adds an invaluable layer to our understanding of the American presidency, reminding us that in the realms of governance and destiny, there is always an element of chance.