South Dakota Crusader

Francis Case’s Road to Congress

Non-Fiction - Biography
584 Pages
Reviewed on 02/16/2024
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Author Biography

Stephen L. Wilson is an award-winning author and a former adjunct professor in the History and Political Science Department at Concordia University-St. Paul. In 2013, he retired from a 35-year law career. During that time, he worked for three different law firms and spent five years with the U. S. Agency for International Development General Counsel’s Office in Washington, D.C. From 1991 until retirement, he was a partner with Foley & Mansfield in Minneapolis.
In 1970, Wilson graduated from the University of South Dakota with a B.A. in Government. He then enrolled at England’s Oxford University as a Rhodes scholar, completed the Philosophy, Politics and Economics course, and was awarded B.A. and M.A. degrees. He received his law degree from the University of Michigan. When he graduated from college, Wilson was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He served on active duty in 1973 at Ft. Knox, Kentucky. After six years in the Ready Reserve, he was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.
Stephen has been married to Kristine since 1977, and they have three adult children. His interests include traveling, hiking, fly fishing, golf, getting together with family and friends, reading nonfiction, and listening to music and public radio.

    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

South Dakota Crusader: Francis Case’s Road to Congress is a work of non-fiction in the biography, sociopolitical issues, and government history subgenres. It is suitable for the general adult reading audience. Penned by author Stephen L. Wilson, this dedicated work provides a comprehensive exploration of Francis Case's journey leading up to his tenure as a U.S. congressman. Starting with his upbringing in rural Iowa as one of five siblings in a Methodist minister family, the book delves into Case's formative years, including his education, Marine Corps service, teaching career, and involvement in various civic endeavors. It highlights his contributions as a newspaperman in South Dakota and his dedication to promoting the Black Hills region. The narrative follows Case's three attempts to secure a congressional seat, offering insights into his family life and values along the way. Through meticulous research and detailed storytelling, Wilson paints a vivid portrait of Case as a principled and accomplished individual who dedicated the first part of his life to preparing for national public service.

Author Stephen L. Wilson's meticulous attention to detail and thorough exploration of Case's upbringing, career, and political aspirations provide readers with a rich understanding of the man behind the political figure. Thanks to the author’s engaging narrative style, the work reads smoothly and offers an inspiring and enlightening experience with a full overview of the dynamic political landscape of South Dakota during Case’s time. As Case navigates various challenges and opportunities on his path to Congress, the reader gains insight into his character, values, and unwavering commitment to public service through well-chosen anecdotes and vividly realized vignettes of memory. Wilson's narrative style is deeply engaging and accessible regardless of your previous level of political knowledge, making the book both informative and enjoyable to read. Overall, South Dakota Crusader is a compelling biography that sheds light on an often-overlooked figure in American political history, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for readers interested in leadership, perseverance, and civic engagement.