History Matters
by David McCulloughGenres: History / Essays, Political Science / Civics & Citizenship
Published on September 16, 2025
Pages: 192
Format: Hardcover Source: Library
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.
I loved David McCullough’s books. I always listened to the audiobooks narrated by Edward Hermann. I miss them both so much.
So when I saw that there was a “new” David McCullough book out I jumped at the chance to read it.
This is a collection of essays taken from old speeches or never published writings or papers that were published in limited circulation. The topics are pretty diverse. They range from Harriet Beecher Stowe’s time in Europe to musings on the typewriter that he wrote all his books on.
I was particularly taken by a recurring warning in many of his speeches about the dangers of a rising anti-intellectualism in the United States. He was under the impression that the ignorance of history and the lack of caring about character of leaders could go badly for us.
As with any collection of essays, these were hit or miss for me. Some of them didn’t mean much to me but others had me copying quotes. This book will delight anyone who loved reading David McCullough and wants a chance to experience his voice again.
I just wish I could have heard it read by Edward Hermann.
