In this posthumous collection of thought-provoking essays—many never published before—Pulitzer Prize–winning historian and bestselling author David McCullough affirms the value of history, how we can be guided by its lessons, and the enduring legacy of American ideals.
History Matters brings together selected essays by beloved historian David McCullough, some published here for the first time, written at different points over the course of his long career but all focused on the subject of his lifelong passion: the importance of history in understanding our present and future. Edited by McCullough’s daughter, Dorie McCullough Lawson, and his longtime researcher, Michael Hill, History Matters is a tribute to a master historian and offers fresh insights into McCullough’s enduring interests and writing life. The book also features a foreword by Jon Meacham.
McCullough highlights the importance of character in political leaders, with Harry Truman and George Washington serving as exemplars of American values like optimism and determination. He shares his early influences, from the books he cherished in his youth to the people who mentored him. He also pays homage to those who inspired him, such as writer Paul Horgan and painter Thomas Eakins, illustrating the diverse influences on his writing as well as the influence of art.
Rich with McCullough’s signature grace, curiosity, and narrative gifts, these essays offer vital lessons in viewing history through the eyes of its participants, a perspective that McCullough believed was crucial to understanding the present as well as the past. History Matters is testament to McCullough’s legacy as one of the great storytellers of this nation’s history and of the lasting promise of American ideals.

- 176 pages
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
eBook - ePub
History Matters
About this book
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Subtopic
Historical Theory & CriticismIndex
HistoryTable of contents
- Cover
- Title Page
- Preface
- Foreword
- Part One: Why History?
- Part Two: Figures in a Landscape
- Part Three: Influences
- Part Four: On Writing
- About the Authors
- Copyright
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Yes, you can access History Matters by David McCullough in PDF and/or ePUB format, as well as other popular books in History & Historical Theory & Criticism. We have over one million books available in our catalogue for you to explore.