This book relates a personal history of a time when two great political opponents served together for the benefit of the country. The author was a top aide to Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill, who waged a principled war of political ideals with President Reagan from 1980 to 1986. Together, the two men forged compromises that shaped America's future and became one of history's most celebrated political pairings: the epitome of how ideological opposites can get things done. The two leaders fought over the major issues of the day including welfare, taxes, covert military operations, and Social Security, but maintained respect for each other's positions and worked to advance the country rather than obstruct progress.