Richard Neustadt was an influential American political scientist, best known for his work on the presidency and executive power. Born in 1919, he served as a professor at Columbia University and authored several important books, including "Presidential Power," which examines the complexities of presidential authority and influence in the U.S. government. Neustadt's ideas emphasized the importance of persuasion and negotiation in politics, arguing that a president's power is largely dependent on their ability to communicate effectively with other political actors. His insights have shaped the study of the American presidency and continue to be relevant in discussions about political leadership today.