The WWII Novel That Explains America

二战小说诠释美国

Old School with Shilo Brooks

2026-06-04

55 分钟
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In this special episode, Shilo Brooks is joined by Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Jon Meacham at the Jack Miller Center’s annual summit on civic education.  They took the stage at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the perfect setting for a discussion about one of Meacham’s favorite books: The Winds of War. Written by Herman Wouk and published in 1971, The Winds of War is an epic historical novel that follows an American family through the tumult of World War II.  In their smart, often funny, and deeply moving conversation, Meacham also reflects on why World War II was such a pivotal moment in shaping the unique American identity; the other essential books, events, and moments every citizen should know about to better understand America; and the differences between patriotism and nationalism.  At a moment when our politics feel so fractured, studying history reminds us of an enduring truth: Ordinary people can rise to extraordinary challenges. Old School is proudly brought to you by the Jack Miller Center. If you believe in the importance of civic education and want to help prepare the next generation to carry on our democracy, join us at JackMillerCenter.org.Become a paid subscriber to The Free Press today to enjoy exclusive bonus episodes and reduced ads. Click here to subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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  • Hey, y'all, we have a really special episode for you today.

  • We joined our friends at the Jack Miller Center in Philadelphia for a live recording

  • in honor of America at 250. The setting was the National Constitution Center,

  • which was the perfect venue for my conversation with Jon Meacham, a Pulitzer Prize winning historian

  • and biographer of presidents whose work illuminates the principles at the heart of the American story.