Presidential Transitions: Friendly and Hostile Takeovers

Peaceful transitions are one of the primary markers of democratic governance.  In the United States we have, even today, a rather long period of transition compared to parliamentary democracies.  There are basically two types of transitions, hostile and friendly takeovers.  Most transitions in American History have been relatively friendly, regardless of the parties involved.  But when the exchange is hostile, everybody suffers.  Therefore, even in cases of hostile takeovers, most incoming and outgoing presidents have swallowed their pride and have done what's best for the country.  In this presentation, Daniel will highlight two hostile and two friendly takeovers: Truman to Eisenhower, Hoover to Roosevelt, Johnson to Nixon, and Jefferson to Madison.

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