When he was nominated as vice president on the 1880 Republican ticket, Chester Alan Arthur had never held elected office. Expectations of him-or of the vice presidential office-were virtually non-existant. Years earlier in 1839, Daniel Webster had turned down the vice presidency with the quip, I do not propose to be buried until I am dead.

But six months into President James Garfield’s term, he was assassinated-and the unknown vice president, Chester Arthur, became the most powerful man in America.

This in-depth biography of Chester Arthur is a fascinating look at a man who, thrust unexpectedly into the highest political office, exceeded expectations and left a lasting mark on history, despite being diagnosed with a debilitating illness shortly after assuming the presidency.