David McCullough Interview: The Importance of George Washington

American author, narrator, historian, and lecturer, a two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom examines why learning about George Washington is critical to knowing who we are as Americans.
Learn more about George Washington on our website: www.mountvernon.org/george-was...
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[@LaDivina43]

This is a man in his 80's, speaking without notes, with complete lucidity, consistent clarity, insight and brilliance. And he's talking about the greatest man who ever lived. What a combination!

[@dickaalj999]

Judith Testa that’s a very good thing to understand.

[@Thelastminstrel]

What will we do when David McCullough dies? Who on earth can we find to take his place?

[@johnrobinson4445]

A Republic of LAWS, not men. In other words, color of skin, religion, language, none of these are at issue. Only the laws that we choose to govern ourselves with.

[@41357500]

@@Thelastminstrel trump!!!!!!!!!!!

[@JeffStevens]

@@johnrobinson4445 Sort of. Laws matter most. But people form the laws. Thus, people matter. And sometimes particular individuals matter greatly at particular times. We cannot lose the contributions of culture and masses of people, but neither should we overlook those rare times when one person really does matter.

[@charlespapineau5428]

David McCullough is a treasure. Like Shelby Foote, I could listen to him for hours and stay utterly transfixed. As for George Washington, he will always be one of my heroes as a great leader, a man of indomitable courage, a man of deep faith, and a man of the highest character. The current resident in the Oval office could learn a lot from him.

[@BelCantoization]

I love how he describes Washington and his life and times like an old friend--as if he personally knows him. It takes a special kind of historian to do that with such intimacy, appreciation, and insight.

[@brucekuehn4031]

He has put in long, long hours of research. He learns more each time. His books are many and full of fascinating detail. Pick up any one of them and he will share with you great, true stories!

[@ijustgottasay1281]

Today I have been seeing and hearing a multitude of tributes to the now-deceased Dodger baseball announcer Vin Scully, described by one and all as a national treasure. I would most assuredly state that David McCullough is similarly a national treasure when it comes to something far more important, our nation's history. His knowledge, elegance and passion for America is something that should be enjoyed and admired by every American.

[@dann547]

Excellent analogy.

[@paulrubio3918]

I agree. In this video, he has an incredibly thoughtful way of analyzing the story of George Washington. He is indeed a national treasure.

[@RTauran1]

"History is a source of strength." -David McCullough

[@karencarter8292]

He's wrong about Lincoln.

[@GFHVB4]

I met David McCullough about ten years ago when he received an honorary degree at the college I was working at. A total gentleman.

[@barbararicciuto1841]

No food, no shoes, poor clothing, few weapons. He found a way and won battles. And changed the world.

[@karencarter8292]

And we, our parents and grandparents, have thrown and continue to throw this wonderful inheritance, legacy, away.

[@cjm10203]

What an amazing American story teller. No one can tell an American story like David McCullough. He is amazing.

[@peggyvorse1461]

He loves the American Story, I do , do he didn’t talk about how many miracles, that haven’t , even saving George Washington‘s life, God is big and has been on this country because we had those that came and pledged it to the work of the Lord.

[@peggyvorse1461]

Read the mayflower compact.

[@m74796]

I read your book 1776 . one of the best books I have ever read. Every American should read it, should be mandatory in school. You are just as captivating as a speaker. Very well done.

[@grandmanancy4719]

Will public schools allow reading of about Washington? After all he owned slaves.

[@lachijames6213]

As an Australian, I think every person in every English speaking democracy should too.

[@jockellis]

I’ve read it, too. Along with 16 other books about Washington and Washington and the Revolution. He is truly fascinating.

[@1m2rich]

That book and History of The United States from 1776 to the Present by Howard Zinn.

[@1m2rich]

@@grandmanancy4719 No American today would risk their life, family future and property. We have to live in that time to know it was revolutionary at the time. We got rid of the most powerful empire in the world. Democracy is a process. Not perfect but the best government system in the world so far. Today Social Democracy is the best system but that is not perfect either. They have no military to speak of depending on others. That makes them volnerable just like Canada. .Making America a super power of military depletes our treasury. $800 B war budget cost mostly in weapons and intelligence brings us no security. As Eisenhower said...guns or butter. Happiest countries have little military budgets. Keep all borders the same and worry about population and climate. Wars are environmental disasters. Only thing that wins are bankers. They win on weapons and cost of war and then on rebuilding. Human cost and environment not determined.

[@metalbent9078]

McCullough, two time Pulitzer Prize winner, noted author and lecturer will always be the "voice" of Ken Burns Civil War documentary. I can't imagine anyone else doing the brilliant narration of that documentary other than David McCullough!

[@JoseMorales-lw5nt]

And this, ladies and gentlemen, is why Ken Burns always relies on literary scholars to help bring his documentaries to life! From BROOKLYN BRIDGE to THE CIVIL WAR, hearing David McCullough speak about our national history keeps the flames of liberty alive. My God, how we take this beautiful country for granted. Thank you, sir, for reminding us Americans what it truly means to be.... American.🇵🇷🇺🇸😎🗽🦂

[@President.GeorgeWashington]

I see you have a Cuban flag. Very cool. I've been to Latin America 7 times, and I never grow tired of it. Kind, hard-working, humble people and the best food and tobacco in the world.

[@DonalLeader]

I read 1776 with Irish eyes and marvelled at the parallels with great figures in Irish history. He defeated Castlereagh who went on to wage war against the Irish rebels 1798, who themselves were inspired by Washington and the American revolutionaries. They all belonged to an heroic age that can still inspire us today,

[@SilverGram]

The honor and respect that he has for Washington is touching. I wish his picture was back in classrooms.

[@davidparry8514]

it certainly couldn't hurt

[@matthewlivermanne4441]

We had pictures of Washington and Abraham Lincoln

[@nealtauss1715]

....'Father.... I cannot tell a lie'.... WAS a LIE.... while his picture was hanging in my class room.... next stop.... Viet Nam.... ANOTHER lie.... if you can stand some REAL truth.... try 'War Is a Racket'.... Marine Corps Commandant Smedley Butler.... THE most highly decorated Soldier of his day.... OLD Corps Marine.... back when the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously.... in most cases.... I believe he has Three....

[@SilverGram]

@@nealtauss1715 I knew that . The reality is that all humans are flawed. What made Washington and the other founders great is that they rose up when it mattered. I'm sorry you are so jaded you can't see through the propaganda that seeks to destroy the greatness these men embodied. We all have flaws, they rose above when it mattered.

[@Warcrimeenthusiast]

@@SilverGram Absolutely Well said

[@kc1776]

Never let this be forgotten!! Every time I think about what they sacrificed and endured so that we can enjoy the freedoms we do today, I get all choked up.

[@liviadix1433]

...and yes, a reminder to the present that freedom is worth preserving. I'm not talking about individual freedom, which I consider selfishness.

[@edwinamendelssohn5129]

Depends on the context

[@jaybrown3953]

These men gave everything, some came back greater some never did. Not many understand what the cost was and more don't care.

[@tmseh]

What a incredible writer. His books should be required reading for high school students. I've never seen an interview with this man. My appreciation of what he says here is immeasurable. I live in Western Massachusetts and I am surrounded by so much history in my area and continue to explore that history because of Mr. McCullough.

[@rodyates4771]

His book on John Adam’s is superb,well worth the read.

[@lexyswope]

Yes

[@erpollock]

We must be thankful for George Washington. This was a beautiful segment, and worth the time to listen. We must be thankful for David McCullough as well.

[@danielterry382]

Ken Burns films would not be the same without David !

[@comradeghostboi7989]

slaver

[@tubularbill]

This guy has the best narrative voice

[@BartAlder]

Only Liev Schreiber gets close but David McCullough was the best.

[@ArnaGSmith]

Agree with you 100% that George Washington and Abraham Lincoln's pictures should be back in every school room on display as students sing / pray God Bless America!

[@sandszion]

Oh hell naw

[@martindejesusraya3820]

You don't need those pictures to know they were good men.

[@ericchandler2422]

And say the pledge of allegiance

[@dr.troycrane9973]

God bless George Washington and our other great founding fathers! I plan to thank all of them when I leave this world and see them in the next life! These men were awesome!

[@cindymacferran331]

Me too! Won’t that just be the coolest?!

[@b1of4bs]

He's with them now. ❤

[@PInk77W1]

I think George Washington day should be the Biggest holiday of the year in USA

[@zcharg0]

God bless David McCullough

[@meanjab]

The importance of the knowledge of George Washington in today's youth is absolutely priceless. It takes both, parents like myself to make sure children continue to learn, but men like this to help get that knowledge to those who seek it.

[@Nebulasecura]

God bless This man for summarizing just how brilliant of a leader our great General Washington was. It’s important to preserve our history, never to censor it. God bless America and George Washington!

[@williammarzano872]

God bless our country. We are blessed through our founding founders selfless, courageous efforts. A great man.

[@NeTxGrl]

RIP Mr. McCullough. I hope you're up there chatting with our founding fathers.

[@thnd3rb1rd]

I swear before God, I could listen to David McCullough's marvelous voice read a phone book.

[@dickaalj999]

This man is so intelligent. He’s read, he knows but more importantly he understands.

[@71superbee39]

There could easily be a three hour epic film done on Washington and it would barely scratch the surface .... He single-handedly turned a certain defeat at Monmouth into a victory ... After the war there was a threat of a military coup.. Washington arrived at the meeting of the coup leaders unannounced and began to read a prepared statement. He removed a pair of spectacles from his overcoat and said to the officers present, "You'll forgive me gentlemen, I've grown blind in the service of my country." ... There were few dry eyes in that room and when Washington left that was the end of the coup... When King George III received news of Washington relinquishing his command of the army he said, " If this is true, Washington is indeed a great man."... First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen...

[@denisecaringer4726]

David McCullough words, written or spoken, never fail to engage me and lift me up. This brief video is a fine example. Mr. McCullough answers each question with a clear thesis statement and backs each up with facts, all the while bringing his personal passion to the task. It’s impossible not to stop, listen, and watch him.

[@dougdouglas3945]

I agree, Mr. McCullough is always engaging and interesting, regardless of the topic or subject.

[@sharonharris8152]

What a wonderful interview this is ! Both George Washington and David McCullough are National Treasures and heroes to me !

[@mountvernon]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching.

[@therealtoni]

He puts flesh and bones on his subjects and brings them back to life!

[@jeb4386]

George Washington was a gift from God

[@Jalanski28]

Some historians refer to him as the rebirth of Alexander the Great.

[@jeb4386]

@johnny torres its just a figure of speech Bucky

[@Nebulasecura]

Quite the true statement tbh given just how bad the odds were stacked against the colonies at the time

[@cindymacferran331]

Literally!!! ❤

[@dariowiter3078]

God had a marvelous day he gave the American people George Washington on February 22, 1732. America has been eternally grateful since then. 🇺🇲🗽😁

[@MalEvansUSA]

Rip David McCullough. What a long and amazing life

[@MalEvansUSA]

We are lucky to have a good historian like David in our lifetimes. What a great life. Rip

[@oconnor1951]

If you read one of Mr. McCullough's books, you will want to read them all and gift them to your friends!

[@dickaalj999]

John O'Connor that is a very fine message!

[@Jalanski28]

George Washington left an exemplary leadership. Though im not an american i appreciate George Washington's exceptional skill and ability to withstand the trivial of times and his unbreakable spirit despite facing the threat of harsh environment and circumstances.

[@paulvincent3280]

As a lifelong student of history, I have taken so much pleasure & gratitude in learning of the events in history and the men who spurred them on. It was a long held opinion of mine that for the plethora of GREAT doers and leaders that America produced, we never produced a Churchill. About a decade ago, I began rethinking that, and concluded that was in error, for George Washington was just that. But, more recently, I have concluded that too is in error. I now believe that by 1946, it was apparent that in Winston Churchill, England had produced a George Washington.

[@mach1bach165]

Just so, sir - just so.

[@metadietz8606]

Thank you Mr McCullough, just to bad this kind of history is no longer taught in schools. We have such a rich history as a nation. Through his books, Mr McCullough has brought it back to life.

[@cbpd89]

David McCullough gave a talk that I had the privilege of attending love back in 2007. He dispelled the myth of there ever being a "simpler time." I love his writing, I love his voice, I cherish his exceptional knowledge and wisdom. You will be missed, sir!

[@softshoes]

It should be required that Congress give this man the chance to lecture every year about what service means to America.

[@erikmorgenstern8039]

I really, really, really appreciate what McCullough does for America and the world with his works.

[@jimgordon6629]

Quite possibly the most brilliant man in the country-an incomparable interpreter of our history His books are incredibly rewarding.

[@dougdouglas3945]

David McCullough and David Attenborough, whatever they talk about they make it interesting and I never get tired of listening.

[@barbarastone7546]

An amazingly spiritual man who makes history come alive understands the human heart he is a natural teasure

[@deborahhoffman7394]

A wonderful testament to Washington and the hard work of creating our free nation. These early years set the stage for freedom for all people. And we are still working on it.

[@b991228]

The importance of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt is that for their particular times each could be considered our greatest president. Through force of will these individuals came to present to us the goals and ideals that have come to shape American democracy. They were the great pilots that have steered our ship forward. Now who will be next?

[@michaelburke5907]

Don't forget Teddy.

[@julesmum9781]

JFK comes close

[@bingofuel3545]

This man, is a national treasure!

[@BrettLeMans]

If you seek courage and inspiration...study McCullough's work. "Never Quit..." That's his message. "Dream....dream and believe."

[@Westernman1415]

RIP you American legend your works will live for hundreds of years!

[@FuzzyWuzzy75]

What is more important than any union or form of governance is the principles behind what our Founders created. Without those principles, it is all for not. Sadly, we are seeing plenty of evidence of that today.

[@musicfan6575]

A true American Washington!!!

[@toelover60]

An excellent tribute to a GREAT man.

[@chriseliopoulos4185]

Absolutely inspiring video. Brilliant analysis. Thank you KZbin.

[@gregmilliken5538]

This is great! The history every American child should be taught!!

[@fredsmith3456]

David McCullough was a wonderful teacher to multiple generations of Americans who have forgotten the importance of history. I had the great good fortune of meeting him once when he autographed one of his books for me.

[@fourpatts]

Just when I'm getting the blues about the state of the country I come across the great David McCullough for a splash of cold water in the face. American history itself is cause for gratitude and optimism. McCullough's wonderful stories are testimony that we've had it much, much worse.

[@jameseverett4976]

Our history IS great, which is why the Left wants to trash and rewrite it.

[@alanmacvean2053]

Just a terrific author and historian , discussing a man of his times ....Mr. McCullough will be so missed as a voice to remind us of what we have gone through to be Americans .

[@shanecovey1901]

I can and probably should listen to this everyday.

[@jerrysullivan7223]

This man speaking of our nations beginnings should be in every school and university in the country required reader

[@alainconnelly8870]

McCullough is just simply awesome. Love him.

[@traines51]

Mr. McCullough is my favorite historian. When i read his books, i hear his voice in my head. So calm and informative.

[@susanschaffner4422]

I believe Washington was a remote man. Hard to know, but a man of deep honor and bravery. Lincoln is easier to understand and embrace. Two men that truly shaped our nation.

[@araeagle3829]

"History is a source of strength, and should be." That is masterfully said. We as Americans can come through these days if we are willing to work as they the builders of this Nation did. They set us up to succeed. Only if we give up, lay down, and do nothing will we totally fail. As the pop song says, "I get knocked down, but I get up again. You're never gonna keep me down." That is the lesson of Washington, we may fail right now, but keep getting up. Keep moving forward. We will win out. Unite all America. Throw down the forces that seek to divide us into whatever category, whatever side. Foolishness! There is far more that should unite us then divide us. Get up! Get to work! Roll on unto OUR victory, our Freedom, our Prosperity for ourselves and our Posterity. United America will win in the end.

[@Nebulasecura]

Masterfully said! God bless this great nation and all of the men and women that have worked hard for it!

[@robertrenaud958]

I had the great honor of meeting Mr. McCullough. A high point of my life.

[@BarnabasVorreiter]

Have a Blessed and Happy 242nd BIRTHDAY AMERICA !!!

[@easyyog1185]

Will miss His Voice. and glorious Books. An American Treasure. with Condolences to All His Family and Friends at this time.

[@carolynstorer2405]

I love listening to this man, he is the greatest speaker in my opinion.

[@tmseh]

He really should do a TED talk. I would travel almost anywhere to se him speak.

[@KillerKlipsch]

David McCullough was so important to our American fabric, His intellect will be truly missed.

[@Flashblade]

I needed to hear this. Thank you so much for this video

[@strafrag1]

RIP. Thank you for your voice and intellgence.

[@sherrilynnevonch4036]

This was a breath of fresh air

[@susanschaffner4422]

To not know our history is definitely ingratitude. We should all be thankful for their sacrifices, and learn just what those sacrifices were.

[@helenel4126]

This just surfaced on my KZbin feed. How refreshing is Mr McCullough's interview! I'm so tired of CRT pushers who denigrate this great man and all of the Founding Fathers.

[@scspera]

Horse Hockey!

[@peterle6883]

Gorgeous work. Thank you.

[@LAMBEAU-fb1yw]

Great video!

[@92362kat]

David McCullough is a brilliant historian! George Washington was, indeed, our our best president. Thank you, Mr. McCullough!

[@rickjames9564]

Thank you Dave for all of your tireless effort and dedication in presenting and preserving our American history and passing it on. 🇺🇸❤

[@jeffterpstra6509]

incredible insight!

[@davidanderson4748]

It’s a tragedy that people dismiss figures like Washington and Jefferson based on one thing, rather than understand what they did and how special their contributions were.

[@cindymacferran331]

And remember the times in which they lived.

[@dougdouglas3945]

Here here!

[@williambagley5415]

Mr. McCullough is a great writer...his books are very easy to read 😊

[@rollotwomassey]

@00:16...Well, he kinda WAS a brilliant strategist and, sometimes, tactician [Siege of Boston, Trenton, Princeton]- he realize that keeping the army together and winning the *right* battles, would win the war. He lost more battles than he won because he was outmatched in almost every engagement in terms of men and materiel.

[@brucekuehn4031]

Please take the time to hear the entire piece. It is quite wise and wonderful. If you are short on time right now, at least catch the end of it from 15:16 or better yet from 13:00.

[@rogerwilliams5366]

Outstanding! This is America ❤️💙

[@mikebaker6804]

I really enjoy your work.

[@alunderwood5903]

Powerful truth...let us all go forward, together.

[@pauloakwood9208]

I have read his books. A great historian and a great human being.

[@ericolmeda9150]

This video is more important now then ever. Rejoice Evermore, I wish that had always been in my heart and on my tongue. John Adams

[@ghostinthemachine8243]

America was fortunate to have George Washington step forward and risk everything when he was needed the most.

[@PLINKER]

What a wonderful, knowledgeable man who is able to get his position to people without any political position! Thank you Mr. McCullough!

[@AnAmericanGuitarist]

Awesome!

[@rimcglamery5579]

He hits the point that we can get through what we need to fight against today year 2020.

[@johnstafford4974]

Washington & McCullough -2 gems of America!

[@jeannemcmahonpowers5780]

Love it . Thank - You .

[@ronaldanderson9518]

Thank you David McCullough for this presentation.

[@Woodtoter]

I call David my good friend,, what a guy. The best,,

[@alunderwood5903]

This should be in every school curriculum. So well done.

[@jeffreyking279]

David McCullough is a national treasure.

[@79marcusaurelius]

As a Briton who loves history and recognises the inseverable link between two nations, I cannot dispute the relevance and importance of one of civilizations greatest ideas. The U.S.A. An idea devised by some of history's most eloquent men. However, I feel the present Republic is somewhat off the mark of what the original devisors of its inception would have envisioned. Let's hope the Union gets back on track soon.

[@Nebulasecura]

I agree. I feel part of that is the path that both political parties have gone down over the years, in a way it Kinda proved Washington right that political parties would be destructive to the nation, and make people more loyal to a party than to the nation.

[@gabepace9296]

I agree except for your word "somewhat:" of the mark? how about "totally" instead?

[@SueProv]

@@gabepace9296 If not totally pretty close. The gentleman said somewhat to be polite.

[@jackhays1194]

Agreed. We are off track.

[@edwardpate6128]

As he speaks of many of Washington's interests and hobbies I find it amazing how many of those he ironically shared with another George, King George III. Imagine if those two had ever met.

[@dagda16]

Damn this interview was 🔥🔥

[@samiam9008]

If he could see what we have today, the man would cry.

[@srikark3532]

Super & Inspiring!