From the Watauga Association -- a governing body created even before Tennessee's statehood -- to modern-day gubernatorial administrations, Phillips provides an in-depth look at the state's leaders. Remarks on native American life and concurrent events in the state's development put each governor's tenure in historical perspective. Especially poignant is Andrew Johnson's rise from civic-minded tailor to governor and ultimately to president, and how a political misunderstanding led to his near-impeachment. Phillips emphasizes the state's ability to adapt from an agrarian to urban culture, then back to a "retreat-to-the-land" phase. Includes governors' photos and outstanding bibliography.