Renowned Speakers

on the Saroyan Stage

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Jon Meachum

American Historian, Pulitzer Prize Winning Author

Songs of America: the Music that Made a Nation

October 20, 2021 | 10:30am | William Saroyan Theatre

Jon Meacham is one of America’s most distinguished public intellectuals: a Presidential historian who won a Pulitzer Prize for his biography of Andrew Jackson, an orator who delivered the healing eulogy of President George H.W. Bush, and a journalist who is a past editor of ​Newsweek a​nd contributing writer to major news platforms. As a lifetime student of American history with a deep understanding of politics, history, and religion, Meacham provides historical context to modern issues and events. Best-selling biographer of Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Jackson, Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and George H.W. Bush, Meacham collaborated with country music star Tim McGraw to co-author his most recent book ​Songs of America: Patriotism, Protest and the Music that Made a Nation​. Meacham’s presentation celebrates the songs that define the American experience, showcasing historic songs recorded by McGraw and illuminating the lyrics that have carried our country through times of struggle and celebration. In this unique lecture, Meacham will take us on a moving and insightful journey through eras in American history, connecting us with the songs and performers that inspired Americans past and present.