Tough Liberal

Discover the compelling life of one of America's notable public education leaders in "Tough Liberal" by Richard D. Kahlenberg. Published by Columbia University Press in 2007, this engaging biography delves into the tumultuous career of Albert Shanker, a pivotal figure in the American Federation of Teachers. With 552 pages of captivating narrative, Kahlenberg explores Shanker's controversial decisions, including his dramatic closure of the New York City school system during the strikes of 1967 and 1968, which sparked debates and divisions among communities. Despite the backlash, Shanker's influence on education policy and labor relations cannot be understated. This book presents a nuanced portrait of a man whose convictions shaped public discourse and reform in the U.S. educational landscape. A must-read for anyone interested in education, labor history, or American political dynamics.