Seven Days in May (novel)

Seven Days in May is a 1962 political thriller novel by Fletcher Knebel and Charles W. Bailey II. The novel centers on a fictional attempted military coup in the United States, orchestrated by a powerful general in response to a nuclear disarmament treaty with the Soviet Union that he believes weakens national security.

Plot Summary:

The story unfolds during the Cold War. President Jordan Lyman, facing declining popularity, signs a controversial disarmament treaty with the Soviet Union. General James Mattoon Scott, a highly decorated and charismatic Marine Corps officer and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, vehemently opposes the treaty, believing it puts the United States at risk of attack.

Colonel "Jiggs" Casey, a Marine Corps officer and aide to General Scott, stumbles upon evidence suggesting that Scott and other high-ranking military officials are planning a secret operation called "ECOMCON" to overthrow the government. Initially skeptical, Casey becomes increasingly convinced of the plot's existence.

Casey attempts to warn President Lyman and his inner circle, including Secretary of Defense Paul Girard, of the impending coup. However, the evidence is circumstantial and General Scott is a highly respected figure, making it difficult to convince others of the threat.

Lyman, Girard, and other key advisors discreetly investigate Casey's claims, facing immense pressure and the risk of exposing the conspiracy prematurely. They race against time to uncover concrete proof of the plot and prevent it from succeeding. The novel explores themes of political intrigue, the dangers of extremism, the balance between civilian and military power, and the responsibilities of individuals in safeguarding democracy.

Themes:

• Civil-Military Relations: The novel explores the delicate balance between civilian control of the military and the potential for military overreach.
• Nuclear Disarmament: The story reflects anxieties surrounding Cold War disarmament efforts and the fear of national vulnerability.
• Political Intrigue and Conspiracy: The novel delves into the complexities of political power, ambition, and the potential for conspiracies within government.
• Patriotism and Dissent: The characters grapple with conflicting loyalties and the question of when dissent becomes treason.

Adaptations:

The novel was adapted into a successful film of the same name in 1964, directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, Fredric March, and Ava Gardner. The film is considered a classic of political suspense.

Reception:

Seven Days in May was a critical and commercial success, becoming a bestseller upon its publication. It resonated with readers due to its timely themes and suspenseful plot, and it has remained a relevant and enduring work of political fiction.