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History Matters
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 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.
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 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.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
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About the author
David McCullough
98 books11.3k followersDavid McCullough was a Yale-educated, two-time recipient of both the Pulitzer Prize (Truman; John Adams) and the National Book Award (The Path Between the Seas; Mornings on Horseback). His many other highly-acclaimed works of historical non-fiction include The Greater Journey, 1776, Brave Companions, The Great Bridge, The Wright Brothers, and The Johnstown Flood. He was honored with the National Book Foundation's Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, the National Humanities Medal, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in addition to many other awards and honors. Mr. McCullough lived in Boston, Mass.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
September 27, 2025
I have never read any of DMcC's other books, nor have I really cared to. I had neither the intention to read, nor even the knowledge of this book either. That is until I stumbled upon it at my local Barnes & Noble (before the intended release date apparently), and something about it caught my eye. I don't know what exactly it was but I immediately felt a compulsion towards it. I am thankful for that, because this short little book was lovely.
The book is a collection of essays which are broken up into 4 parts with distinct themes. Why History is important to know and learn, important historical figures, influences from his own life, and finally the more meta topic of writing. I became a bit bored during the influences section however it wasn't terribly long so it wasn't to bad. The rest of the book was intriguing, insightful, and a very quick and easy read.
The book is a collection of essays which are broken up into 4 parts with distinct themes. Why History is important to know and learn, important historical figures, influences from his own life, and finally the more meta topic of writing. I became a bit bored during the influences section however it wasn't terribly long so it wasn't to bad. The rest of the book was intriguing, insightful, and a very quick and easy read.
September 30, 2025
If you are a fan of David McCullough as I am then as soon as this book's publication was announced you pre-ordered a copy and had every intention of reading it as soon as it arrived. Now that I have read it I can say that every fan will find something in this book that touches them and they will love this book no matter what I write or what any reviewer says. I give this book only three stars because that is my rating for a good book, one that wasn't either a waste of my time or my money.
What this book is is an homage to David McCullough created by his daughter and his chief research assistant. It is a collection of some of David's speeches, essays, interviews, and random unpublished lists and writings. In his words David reveals his thoughts about history, writing, research, human nature, and even his regard for his 1941 Royal standard manual typewriter upon which all twelve of his books was produced. Yes, I gave it three stars because David wasn't interested in accolades, high praise, or prestigious awards all he ever wanted was to tell stories and tell them truthfully. Truthfully, this is a good book but it isn't great. This book might cause you stop occasionally and think and I believe he would be pleased by that and that would be enough for him. Enjoy.
What this book is is an homage to David McCullough created by his daughter and his chief research assistant. It is a collection of some of David's speeches, essays, interviews, and random unpublished lists and writings. In his words David reveals his thoughts about history, writing, research, human nature, and even his regard for his 1941 Royal standard manual typewriter upon which all twelve of his books was produced. Yes, I gave it three stars because David wasn't interested in accolades, high praise, or prestigious awards all he ever wanted was to tell stories and tell them truthfully. Truthfully, this is a good book but it isn't great. This book might cause you stop occasionally and think and I believe he would be pleased by that and that would be enough for him. Enjoy.
November 8, 2025
Having read several of David McCullough’s books on historical subjects, over time I found myself opining on who he was as a writer, speculating on his personage.
I see now that in reading a series of essays he wrote on luminaries who inspired his writing career and his passion for men such as John Adams, George Washington and others, I was quite close in my speculation of his old school persona.
Mr. McCullough was a most quixotic and impassioned writer who, in the body of the various essays presented here, showcases his great zeal for historical subject matter and the men and women who shaped it. What I found especially noteworthy was the way in which McCullough assessed history as being dynamic, without clear temporal boundaries—which is to say that he believes one should see historical episodes as being inexorably tied to noteworthy events taking place in the present day. History, as he intones in his speeches and essays, should not be relegated to the past.
(My appreciation to Netgalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review).
I see now that in reading a series of essays he wrote on luminaries who inspired his writing career and his passion for men such as John Adams, George Washington and others, I was quite close in my speculation of his old school persona.
Mr. McCullough was a most quixotic and impassioned writer who, in the body of the various essays presented here, showcases his great zeal for historical subject matter and the men and women who shaped it. What I found especially noteworthy was the way in which McCullough assessed history as being dynamic, without clear temporal boundaries—which is to say that he believes one should see historical episodes as being inexorably tied to noteworthy events taking place in the present day. History, as he intones in his speeches and essays, should not be relegated to the past.
(My appreciation to Netgalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review).
December 1, 2025
Sadly, Mr. McCullough died in 2022; but not before he left a wealth of historical books he had written.
Want to read
May 12, 2025I cannot believe I didn't know about this book sooner but once I did I preordered it immediately. It's a NEED!! Eeeeekkk 🤩
December 9, 2025
America's favorite story-teller unwinds himself of this powerful opinion: "Everything in American history has been achieved through effort". Thanks for the news, David. Elsewhere in this collections of assorted pieces we learn, obiter dicta, that "to see" is the historian's greatest gift, and, in a tribute to Herman Wouk, "imagination is a powerful tool for the writer". D.M. pondered writing a life of Picasso, but decided against it: "He had quite a few lady friends, but that's about it". Harry Truman, subject of another prize winner for McCullough, is saluted for being "a nineteenth century man". Betcha didn't know that? Is it any wonder David won the Pulitzer and sold millions of volumes? As Yogi Barra said when a Jew was elected Mayor of Dublin, "Only in America".
September 16, 2025
Often one of the saddest things about a beloved author's death is that they won't be writing any more books. This very brief collection of rather short pieces exists largely to alleviate some of that grief for David McCullough's fans. The author's familiar voice is comforting even if the material is a bit slight and repetitious. The highlight for me was a Paris Review interview about McCullough's working methods.
In one of the essays (actually transcribed remarks to a Dartmouth audience) McCullough reveals what I think is his secret sauce when he advises writers to "remember you're writing about people who didn't know how things would turn out, any more than you do". For me, that is often the key to good history writing; if the writer can create suspense even though I know how things will turn out, I'm usually sold.
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for providing an early egalley for review.
This can easily be read in an evening and is pleasant enough. I also like the double meaning of the clever title.
In one of the essays (actually transcribed remarks to a Dartmouth audience) McCullough reveals what I think is his secret sauce when he advises writers to "remember you're writing about people who didn't know how things would turn out, any more than you do". For me, that is often the key to good history writing; if the writer can create suspense even though I know how things will turn out, I'm usually sold.
Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for providing an early egalley for review.
This can easily be read in an evening and is pleasant enough. I also like the double meaning of the clever title.
October 16, 2025
3.5?
As a history teacher, of course I’ve enjoyed reading David McCullough‘s books. He’s a fantastic writer and a good historian. That being said, there are some problems with his history-making. He’s always overly optimistic about the history of America. He lionizes people when maybe he should have a more critical approach of them. He doesn’t seem to take America’s worst sins seriously. He doesn’t include the diversity of voices when doing history.
All of that shows up here in this collection of essays that have been published posthumously. You get to witness firsthand his love for history, his love for literature, and his love for America. You get to see how his mind thinks and, I think, it is admirable for the most part.
But a lot of these essays feel like you’re listening to grandpa talk about the good ol’ days and ranting about the ignorance of youth. Multiple times throughout the collection he claims that the young are historically illiterate. Multiple times he lauds the glory of a typewriter. You get the point.
But here a few standout ideas:
- The opening essay about history is great and I will probably use it as an introduction to my social studies class. He equates a willful ignorance of history with ingratitude (and this theme shows up multiple times in the collection).
- I liked that “DMcC” (as friends and family called him) emphasized that there were no “simpler times.” All times before your lifetime were hard.
- I also liked DMcC’s emphasis on the fact that characters of history did not know they were a part of “history.” They were living their present and didn’t know what the morning would bring.
- I think it’s a shame that he writes a whole essay about George Washington being the greatest American and we should all agree with that assessment while not saying anything about Washington enslaving people (and even having a man whipped to death!) except that he manumitted his enslaved workers . . . AFTER HIS DEATH.
- I did appreciate the essay on Truman because I know next to nothing about him.
- I liked DMcC’s emphasis on reading the literature of the time while reading history. He pointed out that figures of the 17th-18th century often quoted famous works without using quotation marks. If you don’t know the source material, you’ll miss it.
- There’s a lot of great stuff about the art of writing. In one anecdote, he tells the story of Samuel Scudder who would set out a fish for students to study only with the instructions “Look at your fish.” When students could not say anything substantial about the fish, he’d repeat the exercise over and over again. “Look at your fish” became a mantra for DMcC and his writing. He also stresses the importance of rewriting and even says he feels more like a “rewriter” than a writer.
- DMcC has a great anecdote about putting a book on the foot of his children’s beds on Christmas Eve so that they would wake up and read the book instead of waking up the parents! I may have to steal this one . . .
As a history teacher, of course I’ve enjoyed reading David McCullough‘s books. He’s a fantastic writer and a good historian. That being said, there are some problems with his history-making. He’s always overly optimistic about the history of America. He lionizes people when maybe he should have a more critical approach of them. He doesn’t seem to take America’s worst sins seriously. He doesn’t include the diversity of voices when doing history.
All of that shows up here in this collection of essays that have been published posthumously. You get to witness firsthand his love for history, his love for literature, and his love for America. You get to see how his mind thinks and, I think, it is admirable for the most part.
But a lot of these essays feel like you’re listening to grandpa talk about the good ol’ days and ranting about the ignorance of youth. Multiple times throughout the collection he claims that the young are historically illiterate. Multiple times he lauds the glory of a typewriter. You get the point.
But here a few standout ideas:
- The opening essay about history is great and I will probably use it as an introduction to my social studies class. He equates a willful ignorance of history with ingratitude (and this theme shows up multiple times in the collection).
- I liked that “DMcC” (as friends and family called him) emphasized that there were no “simpler times.” All times before your lifetime were hard.
- I also liked DMcC’s emphasis on the fact that characters of history did not know they were a part of “history.” They were living their present and didn’t know what the morning would bring.
- I think it’s a shame that he writes a whole essay about George Washington being the greatest American and we should all agree with that assessment while not saying anything about Washington enslaving people (and even having a man whipped to death!) except that he manumitted his enslaved workers . . . AFTER HIS DEATH.
- I did appreciate the essay on Truman because I know next to nothing about him.
- I liked DMcC’s emphasis on reading the literature of the time while reading history. He pointed out that figures of the 17th-18th century often quoted famous works without using quotation marks. If you don’t know the source material, you’ll miss it.
- There’s a lot of great stuff about the art of writing. In one anecdote, he tells the story of Samuel Scudder who would set out a fish for students to study only with the instructions “Look at your fish.” When students could not say anything substantial about the fish, he’d repeat the exercise over and over again. “Look at your fish” became a mantra for DMcC and his writing. He also stresses the importance of rewriting and even says he feels more like a “rewriter” than a writer.
- DMcC has a great anecdote about putting a book on the foot of his children’s beds on Christmas Eve so that they would wake up and read the book instead of waking up the parents! I may have to steal this one . . .
October 8, 2025
HISTORY MATTERS wasn't a book that I read for personal enjoyment. It is part of research work I'm doing for an upcoming project. Despite all of the planned "America 250" celebration events coming in 2026, Historical institutions across the United States have been facing very difficult times in the light of recent funding cuts. Being fascinated with History, I was curious regarding ideas for bringing more of the population at large "into the fold" of Historical appreciation.
HISTORY MATTERS is a collection of essays from the late David McCullough, whose voice is probably the most known as the narrator for the Ken Burns production of "The Civil War." There were many excellent insights available here. Two that stood out for me (and were often repeated) were that historical figures lived "in the present" in the same way that we do, and that History only becomes memorable through stories as opposed to reiterations of chronological events.
Indeed, the main issue that I have with the collection is the repetition. Granted, it is only natural for certain themes to be recalled for multiple essays intended for different audiences. In a collection, though, where the audience is the Reader of the book, it becomes less effective.
In an early essay, David McCullough notes that he tended to think of himself more as an English major than a Historian. That wasn't merely humility from someone who won prestigious awards for his historical writing, but more of an acknowledgement of someone who was intensely curious about a variety of pursuits. He was obviously someone who took his work seriously, but he also needed to find enjoyment in it and in the act of living.
One of the quotes that really stood out for me was, "History lessons are largely lessons in appreciation of those who went before us and did the hard work. Indifference to history is a form of ingratitude." I know that my late uncle, who served in the Second World War, expressed similar feelings regarding those who easily dismissed their right to vote.
So, HISTORY MATTERS is a good source for reflection. Perhaps that is sufficient high praise in itself.
HISTORY MATTERS is a collection of essays from the late David McCullough, whose voice is probably the most known as the narrator for the Ken Burns production of "The Civil War." There were many excellent insights available here. Two that stood out for me (and were often repeated) were that historical figures lived "in the present" in the same way that we do, and that History only becomes memorable through stories as opposed to reiterations of chronological events.
Indeed, the main issue that I have with the collection is the repetition. Granted, it is only natural for certain themes to be recalled for multiple essays intended for different audiences. In a collection, though, where the audience is the Reader of the book, it becomes less effective.
In an early essay, David McCullough notes that he tended to think of himself more as an English major than a Historian. That wasn't merely humility from someone who won prestigious awards for his historical writing, but more of an acknowledgement of someone who was intensely curious about a variety of pursuits. He was obviously someone who took his work seriously, but he also needed to find enjoyment in it and in the act of living.
One of the quotes that really stood out for me was, "History lessons are largely lessons in appreciation of those who went before us and did the hard work. Indifference to history is a form of ingratitude." I know that my late uncle, who served in the Second World War, expressed similar feelings regarding those who easily dismissed their right to vote.
So, HISTORY MATTERS is a good source for reflection. Perhaps that is sufficient high praise in itself.
September 26, 2025
3.75 stars. Some of the selections are outstanding, and will live with me for years. Others near the middle/almost end, felt a little like filler. Well worth it for a history fan; gets you thinking about what makes a good story.
October 4, 2025
(Preamble: given the interview segment of this book left the most impact and given this book is ‘only’ a collection of various essays, said interview, and speeches, I’m doing something differently with how this review is structured. If it comes off as a colossal failure, only I am to blame.)
Interviewer: Aaron, so tell me, why of all books on history, you chose this one, which can be seen as something of a collection of ‘deep cuts’?
Aaron: Honestly sir, it was the audiobook hours I had available. One of the services I use gives me a certain amount of ‘free’ ones and I had just enough left this month to fit this svelte book in.
I: Point made, but again—and ignoring the tech talk for a moment—why this book and not any other?
A: It’s called “History Matters” and it ran less than six hours. Given David McCullough’s credentials, I figure if there’s one person who can somehow make his case and make it count in such a brief amount of time, it’s him.
I: Did he succeed?
A: Well here’s the thing: this is a posthumous release and as you noted, it’s a somewhat mishmash of essays—some unpublished, some not—speeches, and even an excellent interview that covers a smorgasbord of themes. I can’t say if he “succeeded” if the question is the book’s title because he wasn’t around to put the finishing touches on the work. But I can say what we get while varied really does paint a picture of the importance of the past. I learned a thing or two!
I: Tell us something unexpected.
A: Thomas Eakins. Every heard of him? I didn’t. American artist. 19th century. Man, this guy was a master of oil painting but apparently unlike Picaso—someone whom David McCullough noted in the interview he was working on a book about before giving up--
I: --Sorry to butt in, but are you saying David McCullough, the winner of multiple Pulitzers about US presidents was working on a book about a painter whom my kids can outdo?
A: Yea, and the thing was he came to the conclusion it just wouldn’t work. “Keep your hero in trouble” is what he noted in that interview and given—according to him, mind you, my Picaso knowledge isn’t what you call expansive--
I: Yes, yes, go on…
A: --Picaso seemed to find success really early. He was famous, well off, productive, but as the subject of a biography, because he had a relatively ‘safe’ life, it seems like the ingredients for a good book just weren’t there. But I’m sure others have swept in and wrote about him. Can I talk more about Eakins now please?
I: Sure, what about him? The writer?
A: No, the writer is David McCullough. Eakins is the artist nobody seems to know about. He made a bunch of oil paintings in the 19th century. I’m no art buff—again, mind you—but after checking out some of the paintings mentioned—and I’m only seguing to this because it was the subject of one of the more memorable essays in the book—this guy totally nailed facial expressions. He also seemed big on nudes which perhaps given the time period may have made him kind of a social pariah, but that’s just based on my modern assumptions.
I: Alright, I get it. I’ll look him up later (not). Let’s go back to the book’s main thrust: does history matter?
A: Absolutely. The contributions here don’t all force that down your throat, but all come together to form a collective thesis that yes, while time always moves forward, we should not just view the past in the past tense. The “study of dead presidents”—a specialty of McCullough can tell us a lot about our own political landscape today, for example.
I: Interesting. And how do you think McCullough would find today’s political landscape?
A: I’ll just reiterate something he has said in the past: “My specialty is dead politicians.” Oh, by the way, this isn’t my first rodeo with him. About a decade ago I read his John Adams biography. I’d definitely recommend you check it out too.
I: Hit us with a zinger. Any words of wisdom of note you especially got from this book? I know it’s short, but surely there’s something spicy in there.
A: Well, I wouldn’t consider it “spicy”, but it was in the penultimate or last essay about writing advice and one thing really stuck with me: “Read. Read. Read.” If you want to be a good writer, you read—especially if you’re doing biographies where one of the best things you can do is not only read about the person and about the time they lived in, but read what they were reading. Read. So yea, that’s some really powerful advice I got that I guess you can call a “zinger”.
I: Is this book available on TikTok?
A: Thank you for your time.
Interviewer: Aaron, so tell me, why of all books on history, you chose this one, which can be seen as something of a collection of ‘deep cuts’?
Aaron: Honestly sir, it was the audiobook hours I had available. One of the services I use gives me a certain amount of ‘free’ ones and I had just enough left this month to fit this svelte book in.
I: Point made, but again—and ignoring the tech talk for a moment—why this book and not any other?
A: It’s called “History Matters” and it ran less than six hours. Given David McCullough’s credentials, I figure if there’s one person who can somehow make his case and make it count in such a brief amount of time, it’s him.
I: Did he succeed?
A: Well here’s the thing: this is a posthumous release and as you noted, it’s a somewhat mishmash of essays—some unpublished, some not—speeches, and even an excellent interview that covers a smorgasbord of themes. I can’t say if he “succeeded” if the question is the book’s title because he wasn’t around to put the finishing touches on the work. But I can say what we get while varied really does paint a picture of the importance of the past. I learned a thing or two!
I: Tell us something unexpected.
A: Thomas Eakins. Every heard of him? I didn’t. American artist. 19th century. Man, this guy was a master of oil painting but apparently unlike Picaso—someone whom David McCullough noted in the interview he was working on a book about before giving up--
I: --Sorry to butt in, but are you saying David McCullough, the winner of multiple Pulitzers about US presidents was working on a book about a painter whom my kids can outdo?
A: Yea, and the thing was he came to the conclusion it just wouldn’t work. “Keep your hero in trouble” is what he noted in that interview and given—according to him, mind you, my Picaso knowledge isn’t what you call expansive--
I: Yes, yes, go on…
A: --Picaso seemed to find success really early. He was famous, well off, productive, but as the subject of a biography, because he had a relatively ‘safe’ life, it seems like the ingredients for a good book just weren’t there. But I’m sure others have swept in and wrote about him. Can I talk more about Eakins now please?
I: Sure, what about him? The writer?
A: No, the writer is David McCullough. Eakins is the artist nobody seems to know about. He made a bunch of oil paintings in the 19th century. I’m no art buff—again, mind you—but after checking out some of the paintings mentioned—and I’m only seguing to this because it was the subject of one of the more memorable essays in the book—this guy totally nailed facial expressions. He also seemed big on nudes which perhaps given the time period may have made him kind of a social pariah, but that’s just based on my modern assumptions.
I: Alright, I get it. I’ll look him up later (not). Let’s go back to the book’s main thrust: does history matter?
A: Absolutely. The contributions here don’t all force that down your throat, but all come together to form a collective thesis that yes, while time always moves forward, we should not just view the past in the past tense. The “study of dead presidents”—a specialty of McCullough can tell us a lot about our own political landscape today, for example.
I: Interesting. And how do you think McCullough would find today’s political landscape?
A: I’ll just reiterate something he has said in the past: “My specialty is dead politicians.” Oh, by the way, this isn’t my first rodeo with him. About a decade ago I read his John Adams biography. I’d definitely recommend you check it out too.
I: Hit us with a zinger. Any words of wisdom of note you especially got from this book? I know it’s short, but surely there’s something spicy in there.
A: Well, I wouldn’t consider it “spicy”, but it was in the penultimate or last essay about writing advice and one thing really stuck with me: “Read. Read. Read.” If you want to be a good writer, you read—especially if you’re doing biographies where one of the best things you can do is not only read about the person and about the time they lived in, but read what they were reading. Read. So yea, that’s some really powerful advice I got that I guess you can call a “zinger”.
I: Is this book available on TikTok?
A: Thank you for your time.
December 7, 2025
Wonderful collection of writings by one of my favorite historians. Highly recommended.
November 17, 2025
As a lifelong history buff, I really enjoyed "History Matters", a compilation of speeches and essays by David McCullough and collected by his daughter, Doris McCullough Lawson, and his longtime researcher, Michael Hill. The country lost a real national treasure on August 7, 2022. Shining through all this material is McCullough's character. He was a man with an intensely curious intellect, an empathetic soul, and, above all, a person of deep humility - a real mensch. In the foreword Jon Meacham writes, "... John Gunther sought Truman out for an interview. What, Gunther asked the vice president, interested him the most? The answer was characteristically pithy. "People," Truman said. Truman's most notable biographer, David McCullough, would have given the same reply, and American life and letters are all the better for that shared passion. In McCullough's hands, history was an unfolding, contingent, and above all fascinating story of people - of human beings driven by fear and by hope, by ambition and by altruism, by vice and by virtue." (xi)
In the chapter, "Take Luck to Heart" McCullough writes,
"The lessons of history are beyond counting. One is that almost nothing of consequence is ever accomplished alone. It is a joint effort. Nor is there any such thing as a self-made man or woman. We are all the result of the many who have helped along the way, who have taught and encouraged us, seen to our needs, enlarged our horizons, or are there for us in times of need ...Be generous. Give off yourselves. Count kindness as all-important in life. Take interest in those around you. Try to keep in mind that everyone you encounter along the way, no matter their background or station in life, knows something you don't. Get in the habit of asking people about themselves, their lives, their interests, and listen to them. It's amazing what you can learn by listening." (p.21)
I especially liked the chapter "Reading and Writing: a Recommended Reading List." It made me pull out my old dog-eared yellow-paged copy of "Only Yesterday" to reread and to reorder another old favorite "The Reason Why".
In the chapter, "Take Luck to Heart" McCullough writes,
"The lessons of history are beyond counting. One is that almost nothing of consequence is ever accomplished alone. It is a joint effort. Nor is there any such thing as a self-made man or woman. We are all the result of the many who have helped along the way, who have taught and encouraged us, seen to our needs, enlarged our horizons, or are there for us in times of need ...Be generous. Give off yourselves. Count kindness as all-important in life. Take interest in those around you. Try to keep in mind that everyone you encounter along the way, no matter their background or station in life, knows something you don't. Get in the habit of asking people about themselves, their lives, their interests, and listen to them. It's amazing what you can learn by listening." (p.21)
I especially liked the chapter "Reading and Writing: a Recommended Reading List." It made me pull out my old dog-eared yellow-paged copy of "Only Yesterday" to reread and to reorder another old favorite "The Reason Why".
September 20, 2025
Always a pleasure to read McCullough even three years after his death! There's a great deal to be learned about him here, best of all the way he chose the subjects of his books and his own personal book recommendations. A little disappointing is that the longest piece has already been published.
September 18, 2025
Maybe 4.5 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed this posthumous collection of essays & speeches by McCullough. Loved “A Book on Every Bed” on Christmas morning! And I added so many more books to my TBR list, sigh ….
October 21, 2025
Jon Meacham, another beloved historian, in his “Foreword” to this collection, emphasizes David McCullough’s interest in people, in each individual … proof is given in the pages which follow, a posthumous compilation of essays, interviews, and articles, several previously unpublished … a window into the workings of a gifted historian …
September 25, 2025
An interesting little book of essays & speeches from historian & biographer David McCullough about why history matters and is important in life. For a small book it packs some powerful lessons about how we look at the world … present & past. In addition, we also gain some insight into his approach to writing & reading, which I found interesting.
There are several important ideas that I took from this book (and I’m sure I missed some):
* 'Indifference to history isn’t just ignorant, it’s rude … It’s a form of ingratitude.'
* 'There is no better way to understand who we are and why we are… and where we may be heading, than by reading history from the hands of good writers … Past things shed light on the future ones.'
* 'We cannot understand history unless we see events as those living through them did, not knowing how the story ends. Approaching history like this allows us to experience what it was like to face pivotal moments of the past, giving us insight to face our own.'
* 'There is no such thing as the dead past. The marvelous thing about the past is whenever you reach down into it, all you find is life. You could even argue that there is no such thing as the past. There was only somebody else’s present.'
* There is no such thins as ‘a simpler time. There was no simpler time.
* McCullough expressed his concerns about the consequences of raising a generation of young Americans who are to a large degree historically illiterate.
* He also speaks to the importance of character in our political leaders … more important today, in my opinion than any other time in my 70 years:
- 'it’s extremely risky, even perilous, to assume that because people hold positions of responsibility they are therefore behaving responsibly.'
- In 1765, a decade before 1776, John Adams said the following '… the people … have a right, an indisputable, unalienable, indefeasible, divine right to that most dreaded and envied kind of knowledge – I mean of the character and conduct of their rulers.'
* He places the tumultuous times of the day in perspective by reminding readers of the lessons of the past, providing hope in what seem like hopeless times … 'Remember that speaking the truth, loyalty, decency, courage and character all count. All matter greatly still, indeed, count more now than ever. We as a nation are experiencing serious bumps in the road. Don’t get discouraged, don’t give up. We’ve known worse times and come through, and we will now if we never forget who we are and what we stand for.'
* On Writing:
- Interestingly, he sees and draws parallels to the arts & the telling of history. He believed firmly that the telling of history should never be dull.
- Writing history was like working on a detective case. 'And once on the case, you want to know more and more and more … Follow your curiosity.'
- 'Insight comes, more often than not, from looking at what’s been on the table all along, in front of everybody, rather than from discovering something new.'
* On Happiness in Life:
- 'Churchill once wrote that the most industrious, useful people of society may be divided into two categories – those who work with great intensity at their job and for pleasure, for relief, turn to golf or travel or vacation. And then there are those for whom their work and their real joy in life are one in the same – who are thus on vacation every day. And they are the luckiest of all.'
If you’ve never read a book written by David McCullough, this one may provide you with a reason to pick one up. If you’re already a fan, this one will reassure you of what you already know about the man.
There are several important ideas that I took from this book (and I’m sure I missed some):
* 'Indifference to history isn’t just ignorant, it’s rude … It’s a form of ingratitude.'
* 'There is no better way to understand who we are and why we are… and where we may be heading, than by reading history from the hands of good writers … Past things shed light on the future ones.'
* 'We cannot understand history unless we see events as those living through them did, not knowing how the story ends. Approaching history like this allows us to experience what it was like to face pivotal moments of the past, giving us insight to face our own.'
* 'There is no such thing as the dead past. The marvelous thing about the past is whenever you reach down into it, all you find is life. You could even argue that there is no such thing as the past. There was only somebody else’s present.'
* There is no such thins as ‘a simpler time. There was no simpler time.
* McCullough expressed his concerns about the consequences of raising a generation of young Americans who are to a large degree historically illiterate.
* He also speaks to the importance of character in our political leaders … more important today, in my opinion than any other time in my 70 years:
- 'it’s extremely risky, even perilous, to assume that because people hold positions of responsibility they are therefore behaving responsibly.'
- In 1765, a decade before 1776, John Adams said the following '… the people … have a right, an indisputable, unalienable, indefeasible, divine right to that most dreaded and envied kind of knowledge – I mean of the character and conduct of their rulers.'
* He places the tumultuous times of the day in perspective by reminding readers of the lessons of the past, providing hope in what seem like hopeless times … 'Remember that speaking the truth, loyalty, decency, courage and character all count. All matter greatly still, indeed, count more now than ever. We as a nation are experiencing serious bumps in the road. Don’t get discouraged, don’t give up. We’ve known worse times and come through, and we will now if we never forget who we are and what we stand for.'
* On Writing:
- Interestingly, he sees and draws parallels to the arts & the telling of history. He believed firmly that the telling of history should never be dull.
- Writing history was like working on a detective case. 'And once on the case, you want to know more and more and more … Follow your curiosity.'
- 'Insight comes, more often than not, from looking at what’s been on the table all along, in front of everybody, rather than from discovering something new.'
* On Happiness in Life:
- 'Churchill once wrote that the most industrious, useful people of society may be divided into two categories – those who work with great intensity at their job and for pleasure, for relief, turn to golf or travel or vacation. And then there are those for whom their work and their real joy in life are one in the same – who are thus on vacation every day. And they are the luckiest of all.'
If you’ve never read a book written by David McCullough, this one may provide you with a reason to pick one up. If you’re already a fan, this one will reassure you of what you already know about the man.
December 21, 2025
This book was a collection of essays by the author that was arranged posthumously to explain “why history matters”. This topic couldn’t be more important at this time in US history. A very worthwhile read.
December 21, 2025
Selected writings, speeches and interviews of two time Pulitzer Prize author David McCullough. A short collection that vibrantly displays the broad literary and historical talents of this remarkable and revered figure. This slender volume is a quick and rewarding read.
October 8, 2025
I have to confess I haven't read any of McCullough's bios or histories, but I enjoyed this collection of his occasional pieces. They offer insights and inspirations for writers. But, mostly having been written 10-35 years ago, the essays have an optimism to them that just rings hollow in our own times. History does have the value he advocates, but only if people care about it--which fewer and fewer do.
September 21, 2025
I haven’t read McCullough before, but greatly enjoyed these short essays or speeches given on various people in history, his writing process, his view on art, his thoughts on stories and how they appeal to humanity. Watched the short documentary on him which enriched this title as well. Loved the chapters he talked about other books and authors that he has enjoyed. Adding to my TBR, and will need to start reading some of his other works. History is not boring!!
October 8, 2025
I love to read not just what David McCullough writes, but what he likes to read. And this book has several glimpses into what he liked to read. And it makes me want to be a writer.
June 5, 2025
Read the Arc(Advanced Reader Copy), frankly on a whim.
I was pleasently surprised with this book. I don't know how descriptive I am allowed to be, so I'll just give what the book transmitted to me.
David McCullough's passion for historiography is infectious. I must admit I had no idea who he was but learning about him, his influences and his processes was really a treat.
So much so that i believe this book has jumpstarted my dive into american history.
Also special thanks to the Simon and Schuster for the opportunity!
I was pleasently surprised with this book. I don't know how descriptive I am allowed to be, so I'll just give what the book transmitted to me.
David McCullough's passion for historiography is infectious. I must admit I had no idea who he was but learning about him, his influences and his processes was really a treat.
So much so that i believe this book has jumpstarted my dive into american history.
Also special thanks to the Simon and Schuster for the opportunity!
October 17, 2025
This is a posthumous gathering of essays — quiet reflections from David McCullough, published after his passing. I’m often wary of such collections. There’s always that lingering question: did the author intend for these words to surface in this form, or were they private thoughts left behind? Still — I read on.
And as always, I came away changed.
Every time I encounter McCullough’s work, I learn something new — not just about history, but about how to see. His grasp of the past, of language, of the deep currents that run through culture and belief, made him more than a historian. He was a craftsman of memory. A sculptor of narrative.
Years ago, I had a chance to hear him speak. I let the day-to-day pull me away, told myself there’d be another time. There wasn’t. After reading History Matters, that missed opportunity feels heavier.
This small volume is true to its promise — a testament to McCullough’s place among our most vital voices. As someone who’s taught history for decades, I’ve struggled to find a book that shows young writers what it means to write with clarity and conviction. This comes close.
But it’s more than a manual. These essays are glimpses into a long life of observation — tributes to people he admired, to books that shaped him, to ideals he believed America could still reach for. There’s guidance here, yes — but also warmth, humility, and the kind of quiet insistence that stays with you long after the last page.
And as always, I came away changed.
Every time I encounter McCullough’s work, I learn something new — not just about history, but about how to see. His grasp of the past, of language, of the deep currents that run through culture and belief, made him more than a historian. He was a craftsman of memory. A sculptor of narrative.
Years ago, I had a chance to hear him speak. I let the day-to-day pull me away, told myself there’d be another time. There wasn’t. After reading History Matters, that missed opportunity feels heavier.
This small volume is true to its promise — a testament to McCullough’s place among our most vital voices. As someone who’s taught history for decades, I’ve struggled to find a book that shows young writers what it means to write with clarity and conviction. This comes close.
But it’s more than a manual. These essays are glimpses into a long life of observation — tributes to people he admired, to books that shaped him, to ideals he believed America could still reach for. There’s guidance here, yes — but also warmth, humility, and the kind of quiet insistence that stays with you long after the last page.
November 20, 2025
"Happiness - true happiness - is not to be found in vacations or the like. It is to be fund in the love of learning and doing what you really want to get up and get it each day."
-page 145
A collection of 20 speeches and essays by, and an interview with, the late great nonfiction author. Most of the content is short: only 5-10 pages. There's a bit of memoir, tributes to some individuals considered notable, and some philosophical musings about the craft of writing and/or the value of studying history.
My favorite parts were the interview, the essays praising the character of George Washington and Harry Truman, the reminisce about Arthur Schlesinger, and his speech "The Good Hard Work of Writing Well." There were a few duds - mostly when he spoke about people that were important to him but whom I've never heard of and did not find interesting.
I strongly agree with one of McCullough's major philosophies about his career: history should be about answering questions rather than proving a point. His opinion of Nixon in the early 1960s was spot-on, and almost eerie if you read the quote without the context of which Republican president he's talking about.
This is by no means a must-read; it certainly feels like bonus material to McCullough's career. However, it is mostly a breezy read and occasionally memorable. If you've read his other books or heard him speak, I think you'll enjoy this one too.
-page 145
A collection of 20 speeches and essays by, and an interview with, the late great nonfiction author. Most of the content is short: only 5-10 pages. There's a bit of memoir, tributes to some individuals considered notable, and some philosophical musings about the craft of writing and/or the value of studying history.
My favorite parts were the interview, the essays praising the character of George Washington and Harry Truman, the reminisce about Arthur Schlesinger, and his speech "The Good Hard Work of Writing Well." There were a few duds - mostly when he spoke about people that were important to him but whom I've never heard of and did not find interesting.
I strongly agree with one of McCullough's major philosophies about his career: history should be about answering questions rather than proving a point. His opinion of Nixon in the early 1960s was spot-on, and almost eerie if you read the quote without the context of which Republican president he's talking about.
This is by no means a must-read; it certainly feels like bonus material to McCullough's career. However, it is mostly a breezy read and occasionally memorable. If you've read his other books or heard him speak, I think you'll enjoy this one too.
November 4, 2025
A collection of short works David McCullough authored throughout his life. The editors are one of his daughters and his research assistant. To my mind, McCullough is arguably one of the best, most readable historians to publish over the past 60-75 years, along with William Manchester and Daniel Boorstin. Although, to be fair, McCullough himself said he wasn’t a historian, just an English major.
There is a transcript of an interview he did with the Paris Review, circa 1991, early in this book which I found fascinating. McCullough talks about how and why he wrote, or didn’t write, various books and describes his methods. The essay about George Washington in the middle of the collection is as good as anything he ever wrote. And don’t overlook his reading list, one of the last essays in this book. But the best, IMO, is his synopsis of his book Truman which demonstrates McCullough’s passion for the subjects he wrote about.
This really is a well curated, pithy collection of essays, interviews and speeches David McCullough authored over his long career which, together, make the case that history matters.
There is a transcript of an interview he did with the Paris Review, circa 1991, early in this book which I found fascinating. McCullough talks about how and why he wrote, or didn’t write, various books and describes his methods. The essay about George Washington in the middle of the collection is as good as anything he ever wrote. And don’t overlook his reading list, one of the last essays in this book. But the best, IMO, is his synopsis of his book Truman which demonstrates McCullough’s passion for the subjects he wrote about.
This really is a well curated, pithy collection of essays, interviews and speeches David McCullough authored over his long career which, together, make the case that history matters.
December 4, 2025
David McCullough (1933-2022) was an American writer best known for his meticulously-researched American history popular nonfiction books. 2025's History Matters is a posthumous collection containing various essays and speeches, collated and edited by McCullough's daughter Dorie McCullough Lawson and long-time research collaborator Michael Hill. This was a quick (6 hour audiobook) and engaging listen, and reminded me of another McCullough essay collection I recently read, 2017's The American Spirit: Who We Are and What We Stand For. I don't think it's necessarily essential for those who've read McCullough's full-length books, but it will be of interest to those who are fans of particular books to understand more of McCullough's research and thought processes.
My statistics:
Book 359 for 2025
Book 2285 cumulatively
My statistics:
Book 359 for 2025
Book 2285 cumulatively
October 4, 2025
First of all, I have to admit that David McCullough's enthusiastic, can-do style of writing is a little overwhelming for a cautious ditherer like me. But there's lots of good stuff in these speeches and essays collected by his daughter, Dorie McCullough Lawson, and his assistant, Michael Hill.
As you might expect, some of the best essays here are profiles of historical figures. Two highlights for me are a profile of artist Thomas Eakins, and an account of Harriet Beecher Stowe's trip to Paris. McCullough's specialty was trying to inhabit the times he wrote about, and, as best he can, to get inside his subjects' skin.
And, as a reader, I also appreciate his book recommendations, some of which are well known and popular, others unusual and sometimes obscure.
As you might expect, some of the best essays here are profiles of historical figures. Two highlights for me are a profile of artist Thomas Eakins, and an account of Harriet Beecher Stowe's trip to Paris. McCullough's specialty was trying to inhabit the times he wrote about, and, as best he can, to get inside his subjects' skin.
And, as a reader, I also appreciate his book recommendations, some of which are well known and popular, others unusual and sometimes obscure.
November 17, 2025
This was another example of a book that inspired me. Listening to McCullough talk about history inspired me to jump back into more history and biography.
Additionally, any opportunity I get to hear him talk about Harry Truman is a plus in my book. This is a great read for anyone interested in history and anyone who wants to inspire others to read and study history.
Additionally, any opportunity I get to hear him talk about Harry Truman is a plus in my book. This is a great read for anyone interested in history and anyone who wants to inspire others to read and study history.
December 1, 2025
I miss David McCullough...I've read all of his books save one. I enjoyed this short collection of speeches, articles, etc. There were one or two misses for me but most were hits and very enjoyable. 🙂👍 I guess I should tackle John Adams now... the final book for me and after that nothing new. ☹ I miss David McCullough.
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