Description
The first edition of The Politics Of Diplomacy by James A. Baker III, inscribed to his friend, Judge Paul Pressler of Texas.
Octavo, xvi, 687pp. Black hardcover, title in gilt on spine, signature of author in gilt on front cover. The first edition, first printing with a full number line on the copyright page. In the publisher’s near fine dust jacket, retail price on front flap, a few scrapes to the rear panel. This copy is signed on a bookplate: “To Paul Pressler / a lifelong friend, with warmest personal regards / Jim Baker.”
Judge Paul Pressler (1930-2024) was President George H.W. Bush’s and James Baker’s choice to lead the Office of Government Ethics in 1989, but “ethical problems” would derail his nomination. Judge Pressler served on the Texas Court of Appeals from 1978-1992. He was influential in the conservative resurgence of the Southern Baptist Convention and a notable power broker in conservative Texas politics. He was accused of sexual misconduct later in life and utilized the legal services of Baker Botts, the namesake law firm of the Baker family, to defend himself.