In a deeply unsettling week for the nation, Jon Meacham, the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author of The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, shared his insights on the current state of America’s soul. When asked about the nation’s condition, Meacham articulated a troubling sentiment, stating, “I think that we are in a dangerous place.” He emphasized that American history is not a fairytale with a perfect beginning or conclusion, highlighting that while there are moments worth emulating, the present situation is far from ideal.
According to Meacham, political violence tends to arise during periods of existential questioning regarding identity and inclusion. He posed critical questions: “Who is an American? Who deserves to be included in ‘We the people’ or ‘All men are created equal’?” He noted that when there is a lack of consensus on these fundamental issues, violence becomes a historical pattern. Tragically, this pattern was exemplified on Wednesday, when a gunshot rang out at Utah Valley University, marking another violent episode in America.
During a public debate, the prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk, aged 31, was assassinated. By the following day, authorities had apprehended a suspect: 22-year-old Tyler Robinson from Utah. Kirk was recognized for his fervent support of former President Donald Trump and was a key figure in Trump’s political movement. His supporters revered him as a defender of Western civilization, while critics labeled him as an incendiary figure for his provocative remarks, including his assertion that the Democratic Party seeks to transform America into a “third-world hellhole.”
Kirk’s assassination is the latest incident in a troubling trend of political violence that has surged since last summer. This wave includes notable events such as two assassination attempts on Trump, the firebombing of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home, and the tragic murders of Democratic lawmaker Melissa Hortman and her husband in Minnesota. Other incidents include the killings of Israeli embassy officials in Washington and police officer David Rose outside the CDC headquarters in Atlanta.
Meacham addressed these escalating tensions during an interview with Robert Costa, acknowledging that we are indeed living in a time when such violence seems increasingly prevalent. He attributes this to a crisis in the very purpose of politics in America, stating, “We are experiencing an era in which we are debating not only the means of politics but the purpose of politics.”
Meacham underscores the importance of the American covenant, which entails engaging in peaceful argument, dissent, and debate. He warns that losing this capacity jeopardizes the foundational principles of the nation. He implores leaders and citizens alike to reflect on the narrative of America: “Make the case. Tell the story. What do you want the country to be?”
Highlighting historical moments that shaped the nation, such as Omaha Beach, the Pettus Bridge, and Gettysburg, Meacham argues for the necessity of recounting these stories. These events exemplified how imperfect individuals worked together to create a more perfect union. “They got through it, barely,” he noted, inspiring a sense of hope and resilience.
As America grapples with its current challenges, Meacham emphasizes the importance of unity and respect. He believes that if past generations could endure and overcome their trials, then so can contemporary Americans. “If they could do it, then we can, too, if we decide that this country is about a more perfect union,” he stated. He advocates for an America that embraces dissent and mutual respect rather than one that resorts to violence and division.
For more insights from Jon Meacham, visit jonmeacham.com. This article was produced by Sara Kugel and edited by Chad Cardin.
