1926. From the diary of Edward Mandell House, the self-styled Colonel House (colonel in nickname only), who served as President Woodrow Wilson's closest confidant during the four years of the First World War. By reading the House diary, one becomes a witness to one of the most exciting periods in history. To Colonel House, the election of President Wilson heralded the dawn of a new age of progress and reform. The advent of World War I brought a halt to his domestic program, but enlarged House's sphere of observation and contacts. Peacemaking brought him into contact with the leaders of virtually every country in the world. Kings, presidents, and leaders of new movements come vividly to life with House's words.