High Crimes and Misdemeanors: A History of Impeachment for the Age of Trump

This book explores the history and evolution of impeachment in the United States, from its medieval English origins to its adoption in the Constitution and its use against Donald Trump in two impeachments. It demonstrates that impeachment is a flexible tool adaptable to the needs of any age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 600 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This essential work delves into the historical origins of impeachment, tracing its bloody roots in medieval England to its eventual inclusion in the United States Constitution. Spanning a remarkable 250 years of American history, it culminates in the two impeachments of Donald Trump. Frank O. Bowman III, in his captivating narrative, unveils the stories of nobles, commoners, colonists, judges, legislators, cabinet officers, and Presidents who have grappled with the threat of impeachment. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Bowman demonstrates that impeachment was designed as a flexible and adaptable tool, rooted in history and capable of meeting the changing needs of different eras.

The first edition of this groundbreaking work garnered widespread attention, with both Democrats and Republicans delving into its pages. It served as a valuable reference for advocates involved in both Trump impeachments. In this second edition, Bowman takes the exploration further, expanding upon the deep historical and constitutional analysis of the first edition. Drawing on his extensive experience as a congressional consultant and frequent commentator on the Trump impeachments, Bowman assesses the unconventional presidency of Donald Trump, his impeachments, and the relevance of impeachment as a tool to check the excesses of an overreaching president.

Impeachment, as Bowman reveals, has a rich and complex history, shaped by political, social, and constitutional factors. It emerged as a means to hold elected officials accountable, particularly when they engaged in misconduct or betrayed the trust of the people. Over the centuries, impeachment has undergone numerous iterations and interpretations, reflecting the evolving dynamics of American politics and society.

In the United States, the power to impeach lies with the House of Representatives, which is responsible for initiating the process. The House must vote to impeach by a majority vote, and if the accused President is found guilty by the Senate, they can be removed from office. However, the process is not without its challenges and complexities. Impeachment proceedings can be lengthy and divisive, as they often involve intense political maneuvering and public scrutiny.

One of the most notable impeachments in American history occurred in 1974, when President Richard Nixon was impeached for his involvement in the Watergate scandal. Nixon's resignation in 1974 marked the end of his presidency, and it was a significant moment in American political history. However, the process of impeachment was not without its controversies and debates. Some critics argued that Nixon's resignation was a political maneuver rather than a genuine admission of guilt, and others believed that the impeachment proceedings had been politically motivated.

More recently, the impeachment of Donald Trump has dominated the political landscape. Trump's presidency was marked by numerous controversies and allegations of misconduct, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and the subsequent impeachment inquiry led by the House of Representatives. The inquiry ultimately resulted in two articles of impeachment being passed by the House, which accused Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

The Senate trial that followed was highly contentious, with both sides presenting their arguments and evidence. While the Senate ultimately acquitted Trump on both charges, the trial highlighted the deep divisions and polarization within American society. It also raised questions about the role of the Senate in impeachment proceedings and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.

In conclusion, Impeachment: A History of Political Intrigue and Power is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the historical origins of impeachment, its evolution in the United States Constitution, and its profound impact on American politics. Through the narratives of individuals and the analysis of historical events, Bowman sheds light on the complex dynamics of impeachment, its role in upholding the rule

The power to impeach is vested in the House of Representatives, which is responsible for initiating the process. The House must vote to impeach by a majority vote, and if the accused President is found guilty by the Senate, they can be removed from office. However, the process is not without its challenges and complexities. Impeachment proceedings can be lengthy and divisive, as they often involve intense political maneuvering and public scrutiny.

One of the most notable impeachments in American history occurred in 1974, when President Richard Nixon was impeached for his involvement in the Watergate scandal. Nixon's resignation in 1974 marked the end of his presidency, and it was a significant moment in American political history. However, the process of impeachment was not without its controversies and debates. Some critics argued that Nixon's resignation was a political maneuver rather than a genuine admission of guilt, and others believed that the impeachment proceedings had been politically motivated.

More recently, the impeachment of Donald Trump has dominated the political landscape. Trump's presidency was marked by numerous controversies and allegations of misconduct, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and the subsequent impeachment inquiry led by the House of Representatives. The inquiry ultimately resulted in two articles of impeachment being passed by the House, which accused Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

The Senate trial that followed was highly contentious, with both sides presenting their arguments and evidence. While the Senate ultimately acquitted Trump on both charges, the trial highlighted the deep divisions and polarization within American society. It also raised questions about the role of the Senate in impeachment proceedings and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.

In conclusion, Impeachment: A History of Political Intrigue and Power is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the historical origins of impeachment, its evolution in the United States Constitution, and its profound impact on American politics. Through the narratives of individuals and the analysis of historical events, Bowman sheds light on the complex dynamics of impeachment, its role in upholding the rule

The power to impeach is vested in the House of Representatives, which is responsible for initiating the process. The House must vote to impeach by a majority vote, and if the accused President is found guilty by the Senate, they can be removed from office. However, the process is not without its challenges and complexities. Impeachment proceedings can be lengthy and divisive, as they often involve intense political maneuvering and public scrutiny.

One of the most notable impeachments in American history occurred in 1974, when President Richard Nixon was impeached for his involvement in the Watergate scandal. Nixon's resignation in 1974 marked the end of his presidency, and it was a significant moment in American political history. However, the process of impeachment was not without its controversies and debates. Some critics argued that Nixon's resignation was a political maneuver rather than a genuine admission of guilt, and others believed that the impeachment proceedings had been politically motivated.

More recently, the impeachment of Donald Trump has dominated the political landscape. Trump's presidency was marked by numerous controversies and allegations of misconduct, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and the subsequent impeachment inquiry led by the House of Representatives. The inquiry ultimately resulted in two articles of impeachment being passed by the House, which accused Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.

The Senate trial that followed was highly contentious, with both sides presenting their arguments and evidence. While the Senate ultimately acquitted Trump on both charges, the trial highlighted the deep divisions and polarization within American society. It also raised questions about the role of the Senate in impeachment proceedings and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.

In conclusion, Impeachment: A History of Political Intrigue and Power is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the historical origins of impeachment, its evolution in the United States Constitution, and its profound impact on American politics. Through the narratives of individuals and the analysis of historical events, Bowman sheds light on the complex dynamics of impeachment, its role in upholding the rule.

ISBN-13: 9781009400985
Edition number: 2 Revised edition