When Ronald Dellums arrived in Washington in 1971 to represent Oakland, California, in the House of Representatives, his radical activism had already earned him a place on Nixon's enemy list. When he retired in 1998-his radicalism still intact-he left a record of accomplishment that has made an indelible mark on our political landscape.

Lying Down with the Lions chronicles Dellums's years in the House, and offers crucial lessons for Americans committed to democratic social change. From his days as a freshman from California's 9th Congressional District, to helping to found the Congressional Black Caucus, to being the first African-American to serve on and later chair the House Armed Services Committee, Dellums's tenure in the House is both a testament to his significant career and a crucible of American politics at the close of the century. Lying Down with the Lions tells the stories of Dellums's remarkable life and of his political battles--over a sensible defense policy, health care reform, and ending apartheid in South Africa, to name just a few of his courageous struggles--with lessons learned about leadership, politics, and the importance of building coalitions to effect change.

Profound and humane, Lying Down with the Lions ensures Ronald Dellums's place as one of our most important leaders of the last half century.