Acclaimed Historian Shares Political Lessons

Doris Kearns Goodwin discusses leadership and unity during divisive times.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:17pm

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A serene, painterly scene depicting a lone figure or government building in soft, warm light, conveying a sense of contemplation and nostalgia around the topic of American politics.An esteemed historian's insights on leadership and unity offer valuable perspective for navigating the country's current political divisions.Worcester Today

Acclaimed presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin spoke to a packed audience at Assumption University in Worcester, Massachusetts on March 26th. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author discussed the importance of remembering that the United States has endured even more polarizing periods in its history and emphasized the need for political leadership and unity, even in divisive times.

Why it matters

As the country continues to grapple with deep political divisions, Goodwin's insights on historical leadership and national unity offer valuable perspective for navigating the current landscape. Her talk at Assumption University provided an opportunity for the local community to engage with an esteemed expert on the presidency and American politics.

The details

During her talk, Goodwin drew on her extensive research and writing on past U.S. presidents to highlight lessons that can be applied to today's political climate. She emphasized the importance of empathy, compromise, and a commitment to the greater good, even among political adversaries.

  • Goodwin spoke to the audience on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The players

Doris Kearns Goodwin

A Pulitzer Prize-winning presidential historian and author of several acclaimed books on U.S. presidents.

Assumption University

A private Catholic university located in Worcester, Massachusetts, where Goodwin delivered her talk.

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What they’re saying

“We are living in polarizing times and it is important to remember our country has survived even more challenging periods.”

— Doris Kearns Goodwin, Presidential Historian

The takeaway

Goodwin's talk provided a historical perspective on navigating political divisions, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compromise, and a commitment to the greater good - lessons that remain relevant as the country continues to grapple with deep partisan rifts.