KIRKUS REVIEW
This belongs in the panorama of American political figures and statesmen, but it is doubtful whether interest in Tilden extends far beyond the eastern seaboard except for students of the American political scene. As candidate for president, probably actually elected, if the truth could be proved, Tilden was a national figure in the '80's. Today this biography is revealing, showing him more of a personage than the uninitiate might know. A politician of the Jackson school, head of his party, at the pinnacle of the legal profession, great in his capacity for business, sagacious, fearless -- he was a notable figure for a long span of years. He served in various political capacities, was governor of the state of New York, and made a permanent place for himself in smashing the Tweed Ring and the Canal Ring. A substantial, definitive life.