The WWII Novel That Explains America
From Old School with Shilo Brooks by The Free Press
June 4, 2026 · 55 min
About this episode
Shilo Brooks discusses the impact of World War II on American identity with historian Jon Meacham, focusing on the novel 'The Winds of War'.
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…
People in this episode
Host: Shilo Brooks
Guest: Jon Meacham
Topics covered
- World War II
- American identity
- civic education
- historical novels
- patriotism vs nationalism
Keywords
- World War II
- American identity
- Jon Meacham
- The Winds of War
- civic education
- patriotism
- nationalism
Sponsors
Jack Miller Center
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: The Winds of War
Places: Philadelphia, America, National Constitution Center
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