A Washington insider reveals how modern presidents have succeeded--and failed--in making foreign policy. In the wake of recent American experiences abroad, and with a new administration taking office, here is an in-depth look at what actually happens in the Oval Office, from a respected expert who has held several high-level government positions. Rodman offers a telling survey of modern presidential policy-making, challenging many conventional accounts of events as well as many standard remedies. Illuminating the qualities of personal leadership--character, focus, determination, persuasiveness, and consistency--that determine a president's ability to guide his staff, Rodman makes clear how these qualities shape policy and determine how this policy is implemented. This is a vivid story of larger-than-life Washington personalities in action, and an insightful primer on executive leadership.--From publisher description.