The Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge · Chapter
In National Politics explained
Coolidge recounts his election to the Vice Presidency, the campaign of 1920, the transition from Governor to Vice President, his observations of the Senate and the Harding administration, and the growing burden on President Harding's health
What happens
Coolidge recounts his election to the Vice Presidency, the campaign of 1920, the transition from Governor to Vice President, his observations of the Senate and the Harding administration, and the growing burden on President Harding's health before his final departure.
Themes in this chapter
Frugality and Economy in Government
Coolidge criticizes post-war extravagance and borrowing, advocating for thrift and industry as remedies for economic distress.
Duty and Public Service
Coolidge emphasizes his focus on promoting Senate work and administration success over personal ambition, and the importance of a Vice President's official residence.
The Burden of the Presidency
Coolidge reflects on the heavy weight of the presidency, noting Harding's health decline and grief over betrayals.
Hard Work and Industry
Coolidge urges following Benjamin Franklin's advice to work and save, linking industry to national prosperity.
Characters to notice
- Calvin Coolidge
Narrator and protagonist; reflects on his campaign, vice presidency, and observations of Washington.
- Mrs. Coolidge
Accompanies Coolidge to Marion, Ohio, and on various trips; shares social duties in Washington.
- President Harding
Gracious host in Marion; discusses cabinet and policies; later falls ill and departs for Alaska.
- Mrs. Harding
Hosts Coolidge and Mrs. Coolidge in Marion; remains in Washington as Harding's health declines.
- Judge Field
Presides over Massachusetts electors; had moved Coolidge's admission to the Bar.
- Frank W. Stearns
Implied as a supporter; Coolidge mentions 'the firm where I read law' in context of Judge Field.
Key passages
“In an address at Philadelphia I contended that the only sure method of relieving this distress was for the country to follow the advice of Benjamin Franklin and begin to work and save.”
Coolidge argued in a Philadelphia speech that the only reliable way to end the economic slump was for the nation to adopt Benjamin Franklin's counsel: work hard and save money.
Coolidge ties economic recovery to personal thrift and industry, a core theme.
“I do not know what had impaired his health. I do know that the weight of the Presidency is very heavy.”
Coolidge admits he doesn't know the exact cause of Harding's illness, but he knows the presidency itself is an immense burden.
Reflects Coolidge's awareness of the crushing responsibility of the highest office.
“If the Senate has any weakness it is because the people have sent to that body men lacking the necessary ability and character to perform the proper functions.”
Coolidge asserts that any flaw in the Senate originates from the voters electing senators without the requisite skill and integrity.
Coolidge places responsibility for good government on the electorate.