Michael Beschloss: Taking Charge

The transcript discusses the secret tapes recorded by President Lyndon B. Johnson, revealing his extensive taping of conversations in the White House. The tapes cover topics such as Johnson's commitment to civil rights, his suspicions about the Kennedy assassination, tensions with Robert Kennedy, and concerns about the Vietnam War. Johnson's motivations for recording these tapes were both for historical documentation and as a strategic tool. The release of these tapes, initially intended to be kept secret for 50 years, provides insight into Johnson's presidency and his private thoughts.

What was the reaction of the Johnson Library staff regarding the release of the tapes?

How did Johnson's political skills contribute to the passage of the civil rights bill?

What did Johnson think about American involvement in Vietnam?

What insights did historians gain from Johnson's tapes regarding his public and private persona?