The American spirit : who we are and what we stand for / speeches by David McCullough.

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  • Additional Information
    • Publication Information:
      First Simon & Schuster hardcover edition.
    • Abstract:
      Summary: "This timely collection of speeches by David McCullough, the most honored historian in the United States--winner of two Pulitzer Prizes, two National Book Awards, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, among many other honors--reminds us of fundamental American principles. Over the course of his distinguished career, David McCullough has spoken before Congress, the White House, colleges and universities, historical societies, and other esteemed institutions. Now, as many Americans engage in self-reflection following a bitter election campaign that has left the country divided, McCullough has collected some of his most important speeches in a brief volume that articulates important principles and characteristics that are particularly American..."--Jacket.
    • Content Notes:
      Simon Willard's clock -- Civilization and the city -- The spirit of Jefferson -- Which way forward -- The animating spirit -- The lessons of history -- What's essential is invisible -- The first to reside here -- History, lost and found -- The bulwark of freedom -- Knowing who we are -- The ties that bind -- The love of learning -- The summons to serve -- A building like no other.
    • Other Titles:
      Speeches. Selections
    • ISBN:
      9781501174216
      1501174215
    • Accession Number:
      2017002640
    • Accession Number:
      ocn969386301
      969386301
    • Accession Number:
      fay.527280

Reviews

Booklist Reviews 2017 April #1

Very few among us possess the encompassing and informed perspective on America's past and present that historian and best-selling author McCullough has gained over decades of research. With two Pulitzer Prizes and two National Book Awards as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom to his credit, McCullough, whose subjects include the Wright Brothers, Harry S. Truman, John Adams, and the American Revolution, is a beloved public intellectual. With an eye to this "time of uncertainty and contention," McCullough presents 15 speeches he has given over the last 25 years in the hope that his observations will "help remind us . . . of just who we are and what we stand for." In these clarifying and uplifting presentations, rich in historical anecdotes and portraits, he speaks of freedom and responsibility and "courage and patience." At an Independence Day naturalization ceremony at Monticello, he told "new Americans" that "the nation is richer for you." McCullough reminds us, "If we are beset by problems, we have always been beset by problems." And we have always drawn on our American spirit and convictions to find our way forward. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: McCullough's legions of fans will flock to this edifying collection. Copyright 2017 Booklist Reviews.

LJ Reviews 2017 May #1

Historian McCullough (Truman; John Adams), a Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning author, presents this collection of 15 inspiring speeches in which he celebrates America's talent for curiosity, intelligence, goodwill, and humanity. McCullough is an eloquent writer, and the speeches are designed to be uplifting and celebratory. Amid all of the dissimulation and discourtesy that demands our attention, these brief essays celebrating national aspirations are intended to remind readers that, regardless of shortcomings, Americans have largely strived to better themselves and their country. Whether discussing the building of the U.S. capitol or the storied career of physician Benjamin Rush, McCullough manages to celebrate the people who have helped improve or build upon the nation's founding. VERDICT A concise read that will be well-received in public and academic history collections.—Edwin Burgess, Kansas City, KS

Copyright 2017 Library Journal.