The American Spirit - by David McCullough (Paperback)

About the Book

This collection of speeches by historian David McCullough 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.

Book Synopsis

A New York Times Bestseller

A 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 others--that reminds us of fundamental American principles.

"Insightful and inspirational, The American Spirit summons a vexed and divided nation to remember--and cherish--our unifying ideas and ideals" (Richmond Times-Dispatch). Over the course of his distinguished career, McCullough has spoken before Congress, the White House, colleges and universities, historical societies, and other esteemed institutions. Now, at a time of self-reflection in America following the bitter 2016 election campaign that has left the country divided, McCullough has collected some of his most important speeches in a brief volume that celebrates the important principles and characteristics that are particularly American.

"The American Spirit is as inspirational as it is brilliant, as simple as it is sophisticated" (Buffalo News). McCullough reminds us of the core American values that define us, regardless of which region we live in, which political party we identify with, or our ethnic background. This is a book about America for all Americans that reminds us who we are and helps to guide us as we find our way forward.

Review Quotes

"McCullough's passion for history and his profound belief in America, or at least his vision of America . . . is both encompassing and deeply hopeful. . . .Clio, the muse of history, smiles and nods her head on every page." -- "Kirkus Reviews"

"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. . . . McCullough's legions of fans will flock to this edifying collection."-- "Booklist"

"[McCullough] is one of the great historical storytellers of his generation. . . . Fundamentally Mr. McCullough loves the American story and its most illustrious characters."--Robert W. Merry "The Wall Street Journal"

"A carefully crafted, well-reasoned, heartfelt testament to what this nation can be -- past, present, and we must believe -- future."

--Barbara Hall "The Providence Journal"

"A national treasure, McCullough performs a national service in The American Spirit. Insightful and inspirational, it summons a vexed and divided nation to remember - and cherish - our unifying ideas and ideals."--Jay Strafford "Richmond Times Dispatch"

"Acclaimed historian David McCullough's The American Spirit is as inspirational as it is brilliant, as simple as it is sophisticated. It will at the same time make you laugh and give rise to tears of despair. . . . This is not patriotic boilerplate. McCullough is a historian and a realist. He sees his nation with all its warts, beginning with its indelible birthmark of slavery and continuing through to today's government dysfunction and political polarization. Yet he remains confident and upbeat."--Edward Cuddihy "Buffalo News"

"McCullough perfectly embodies the part of remember-in-chief. . . . Happily, the same qualities that inform McCullough's histories and biographies also shape his speeches. He is, whether at his desk or a lectern, a consummate storyteller."
--Danny Heitman "Christian Science Monitor"

"This book is a gift. . . . It's a powerful argument for keeping history alive."--Michael Schaub "NPR"

"This collection captures McCullough's passion and vigor throughout. . . . [His] enthusiasm for history is infectious."--Andrew Carroll "The Los Angeles Review of Books"

About the Author

David McCullough has twice received the Pulitzer Prize, for Truman and John Adams, and twice received the National Book Award, for The Path Between the Seas and Mornings on Horseback. His other acclaimed books include The Johnstown Flood, The Great Bridge, Brave Companions, 1776, The Greater Journey, The American Spirit, The Wright Brothers, and The Pioneers. He is the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award. Visit DavidMcCullough.com.