What do De Witt Clinton, Henry Clay and William Jennings Bryan all have in common? They were all losers of the US Presidential election – a combined seven times. Author and journalist Martin Gitlin takes us on a fascinating journey through the campaigns, political times, circumstances and key momentum shifts of the losing candidate for every Presidential election. It's an incredible historical journey with Gitlin playing the role of our expert tour guide. Defeated in an absolute WINNER!

Paul Volponi, multi-award-winning, bestselling author of Black and White, Rikers High, The Final Four, Superhero Smart and SpongeBob: The Unauthorized Fun-ography

Martin Gitlin's Defeated: Losing Presidential Candidates in American History is a fascinating look at those who ran for and lost the highest political office in the United States. With essential facts about each campaign, including candidate biographies, issues of the day, slogans, and notable quotes, it serves as a reminder of the role that losing candidates can play in shaping the political environment and the future policy direction of presidents and their political parties.

Lori Cox Han, PhD, professor of political science, Doy B. Henley Chair of American Presidential Studies, Chapman University

In Defeated: Losing Presidential Candidates in American History, pop culture historian Martin Gitlin examines presidential aspirants who campaigned for the presidency and fell short. Readers will discover a treasure trove of information about a colorful cast of familiar and unfamiliar characters from the time of the Founders through the 2024 election. Written in lively, engaging prose, Defeated is a must-read for young adults interested in American politics and history.

J. Michael Martinez, Georgia Gwinnett College, author of Demagogues: Charismatic Political Leaders in American History