Finished, or at least taking a break from, my study of Woodrow Wilson, a fascinating person. He could soar to heights of intellect, decency, and prescience before descending into stubbornness and vindictiveness, perhaps due to his health. His counsel could, had it been followed (or had he the health to push it through), have likely prevented World War Two. Though still befuddled about the man, as are historians, I learned things from my effort:

Most people don’t understand the complex and irrational dynamics of politics.

It was a lot easier to keep personal secrets in 1919 than it is now.

Physical health is a wonderful ally to mental health.

Most people have better and not better angels of their nature. Ascendency can change the world.

Revenge serves as a poor palliative for post-war restoration.

Mitch McConnell was not the first malevolent senator in U.S. history.

Writers should borrow a trick from cinematographers and use shorter segments as they approach the end of their work.

Had one exalted leader like Woodrow Wilson shown support, in those days, for racial equity, America would be a much different place today.

I will go to my grave not understanding how African Americans donned uniforms and went to war in 1941 considering their treatment after 1918.