Even in a life that has seen its share of tumult — she has been, among other things, a Watergate-scandal staff attorney, the First Lady of Arkansas and the nation, an ogress to the right, a New York Senator and a leading presidential contender — Clinton endured a 2008 of spectacular highs and lows. After a surprise victory in New Hampshire, it looked as though Clinton might defeat Barack Obama nationwide, and her tenacious campaign became a symbol for women who felt their voices were not being heard. Now she is poised to begin a whole new life of ferment as Secretary of State.
—John Cloud