Never a fiery orator nor a seeker of headlines, Phil Hart earned after eighteen years in congress the title of "The Conscience of the Senate" from colleauges on both sides of the aisle. Author and sponsor of critical legislation, particulalry in the areas of civil rights, antitrust enforcement, and consumer and and environmental protection, Hart took great pride in the fact that he was a leader in the Senate fight for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He was intelligent and committed, idealistic and courageous, honest and humble, taking stands on contraversial issues. A role model for many, an inspiration for others, the extent of his influence was demonstrated in the fall of 1976 as he was retiring from the Senate and dying of cancer. In a tribute to his distinguished career, Senator Edward Kennedy suggested that the new Senate building be named after Hart. A bill sponsored by 85 senators passed, and the new structure became the Phil A. Hart Senate Office Building. "Naming it for Phil Hart was a nice gesture," wrote columnist Mary McGrory, "and if they could build his qualities...into the walls, we would have a Senate that would astound the world with its civility and enlightenment."

• Contents 
• Acknowledgments
• Introduction
• Chapter 1: 
• Early Life, 1912-1941
• Chapter 2: 
• World War II and Aftermath, 1941-1946
• Chapter 3: 
• Road to the Senate, 1947-1958
• Chapter 4: 
• Gaining Respect, 1959-1970
• Chapter 5: 
• Profile: Personality, character, Family
• Chapter 6: 
• Conscience of the Senate
• Epilogue
• Sources
• Index