This book examines the unique relationships between seven important leaders in history--from Henry VIII to Martin Luther King, Jr.--and their principal advisors. Studying the common psychological themes in such relationships, as well as the consequences of the collaborations, Michael Maher traces the evolution of new styles of political leadership from absolutism through nationalism and socialism to the social advocacy developed by Martin Luther King and Ralph Abernathy. The book uncovers the complex systems each team creates and the way these systems evolve toward a point of impasse or gridlock that requires the emergence of a new political system. Written for the general reader interested in history, this unique, comparative approach will also appeal to the student of politics and management.

Lieutenants uncovers several recurring patterns in the partnerships of each leader and lieutenant. The book reveals how none of these lieutenants fully controls the forces they use, but merely manages or manipulates them for a time. Maher explores the often complementary personalities in the partnerships--one introspective, the other an extrovert; or older men with younger collaborators. He discusses the strongly developed sense of mission in each of the lieutenants, often greater than that of the leader. The book follows new models of leadership and political power created by these partnerships and reveals, even in the most abstract or altruistic appearance, the sense of power these lieutenants covet.