The best-selling author and Emmy-winning presidential historian joins virtual event
November 2022 – Drew University hosted best-selling author and Emmy-winning presidential historian Michael Beschloss in the first Drew Forum event of the 2022-23 academic year.
The virtual event was made possible by donors from the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and was moderated by Phil Mundo, professor of political science and environmental studies and sustainability.
Beschloss, the author of nine best sellers, addressed the country’s most pressing issues in a conversation with Mundo, touching on topics like historical comparisons to the current acrimonious political environment, the midterm elections, the role of media and social media in politics, the nomination process, and the role of vice president.
Following the moderated discussion, Beschloss responded to audience questions covering topics like whether humility is a necessary trait in a good leader, how the world sees the U.S. following the Trump presidency, and whether or not this country needs younger political leaders.
Throughout the event, Beschloss turned to historical examples to put today’s political landscape into perspective.
He compared the current fraught political climate to the 1850s ahead of the Civil War. The divided legislature brings to mind that of the Clinton administration. The need for younger political leaders goes back to the original wishes of the Founding Fathers. The importance of humility in the White House dates back to George Washington’s insistence that politicians set an example for children and society at large.
While historical comparisons can be made to certain elements of today’s U.S., Beschloss repeated that the country is indeed in unprecedented and changing times.
