A New Chapter in David McCullough’s Legacy: “History Matters” to Debut This Fall
In a celebration of the enduring power of history and the timeless insights of one of America’s most beloved historians, a new collection of essays by the late David McCullough is set to captivate readers this fall. Titled History Matters, the book will hit shelves on September 16, as announced by Simon & Schuster on Tuesday. This eagerly anticipated release is not just a collection of McCullough’s previously published works but also features essays that have never seen the light of day before. Co-edited by McCullough’s daughter, Dorie McCullough Lawson, and his longtime researcher, Michael Hill, History Matters promises to offer readers a fresh glimpse into the mind of a master storyteller. Renowned historian Jon Meacham has contributed a foreword to the book, adding his voice to the chorus of praise for McCullough’s life’s work.
For fans of McCullough, History Matters is a poignant reminder of his gift for storytelling and his ability to make history come alive. The collection underscores his unwavering belief in the importance of understanding the past, a theme that resonated throughout his career. As Lawson so eloquently put it, “My mother, Rosalee, always said that his work was built to last, and it has been reassuring to see how right she was.” Through this book, readers will be treated to McCullough’s reflections on the values that have shaped America—optimism, integrity, hard work, and a deep love of country. These essays, crafted with his signature care and creativity, offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the present by learning from the past.
A Family Legacy and a Labor of Love: Bringing McCullough’s Vision to Life
The journey of bringing History Matters to life has been a deeply personal one for Dorie McCullough Lawson. Working alongside Michael Hill, McCullough’s trusted researcher and collaborator, Lawson has carefully curated her father’s writings to create a collection that reflects the breadth and depth of his intellectual curiosity. In a statement, Lawson shared her gratitude for the opportunity to work with her father’s legacy, saying, “It has been an honor to work with my father’s writings in the years since his death.” This labor of love is a testament to the bond between McCullough and his family, as well as his enduring impact on the world of history and literature.
McCullough’s death in 2022 at the age of 89 marked the end of an era, but his work continues to inspire and educate new generations of readers. A two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, he was widely regarded as one of the most influential and accessible historians of his time. His books, including biographies of President Harry Truman and President John Adams, 1776, and The Great Bridge, a sweeping narrative about the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, have become staples of American historical writing. Through his work, McCullough demonstrated an extraordinary ability to make history accessible to everyone, whether they were scholars or casual readers.
Timeless Themes and Timely Reflections: McCullough’s Essays Resonate in a Divided America
At a time when America is grappling with division and self-reflection, History Matters arrives as a powerful reminder of the core values that unite us. The essays in this collection explore themes that are as relevant today as they were during McCullough’s lifetime—optimism, determination, and character. These values, McCullough believed, were the foundation upon which America was built, and they continue to inspire hope and resilience in the face of adversity. As Simon & Schuster’s announcement so aptly states, “Over the course of his distinguished storytelling career, David McCullough emphatically showed the public why history matters.”
The timing of this book’s release could not be more significant. In the aftermath of a contentious election that has left the nation more divided than ever, McCullough’s essays offer a much-needed perspective on the importance of unity and shared purpose. His writing reminds us that, despite our differences, there is a common thread that binds us together as Americans. Whether you are from the North or the South, a Democrat or a Republican, McCullough’s work invites you to reflect on the values that transcend party lines and geographical boundaries.
A Window into McCullough’s Creative Process: Insights for Writers and History Lovers Alike
One of the most exciting aspects of History Matters is the glimpse it offers into McCullough’s creative process. The book includes not only his essays but also his advice on writing and reflections on the early influences that shaped his approach to storytelling. For aspiring writers and history enthusiasts, these insights are invaluable, offering a rare opportunity to learn from a master of the craft. McCullough’s commitment to meticulous research, his passion for detail, and his ability to weave compelling narratives are just a few of the qualities that set him apart as a writer, and these traits are on full display in History Matters.
In sharing his thoughts on writing and history, McCullough once again proves why he was such a beloved figure. His approach to storytelling was deeply personal, rooted in a belief that history is not just about dates and events but about people and their experiences. Through his work, he humanized history, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. Whether he was writing about presidents, engineers, or everyday Americans, McCullough had a gift for finding the universal in the particular, and that gift shines through on every page of History Matters.
A Lasting Tribute to a Historian Who Mattered: Celebrating McCullough’s Enduring Legacy
David McCullough’s passing in 2022 was a loss felt deeply by historians, writers, and readers around the world. Yet, even in death, his legacy lives on through his work, and History Matters is a testament to the enduring power of his words. This collection of essays is more than just a book—it is a celebration of a life dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the art of storytelling. It is a reminder that history is not just the past but a living, breathing force that shapes who we are today and who we will become tomorrow.
As we reflect on McCullough’s life and work, it is clear that he left behind a body of work that will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come. History Matters is a fitting tribute to his legacy, offering readers a fresh perspective on the themes that defined his career. Whether you are a longtime fan of McCullough or encountering his work for the first time, this book is a powerful reminder of why history matters—and why David McCullough will always matter.
