Does the health-care bill's passage place Obama in the pantheon of great presidents—or will it be this White House's last major achievement? Four historians' takes on the big day. Plus, more Daily Beast writers on the vote.
As Big as Social SecurityBy Doris Kearns Goodwin
Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin explains why President Obama’s health-care reform legislation is in the same category as Social Security and the Civil Rights bill.
Overcoming the Fear FactorBy Ted Widmer
Yes, health-care reform is a key win on the merits. But it also shows Obama prevailing over GOP fear-mongering—and generating momentum for the challenges ahead.
Heroine of the HourBy Sean Wilentz
No House speaker in modern times performed as powerfully as Nancy Pelosi has in bringing health-care reform to the brink of passage. Sean Wilentz on Pelosi's historic performance.
The Left's Fleeting WinsBy Michael Kazin
Health-care reform is the signal liberal achievement of Obama’s presidency. Michael Kazin on why it might also be the last.
