ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, February 9, 1997 TAG: 9702100068
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B-4 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: WILLIAMSBURG
Americans focused on soundbites and the latest news are ignoring the importance of history, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian said Saturday.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the 304th anniversary of the College of William and Mary, David McCullough called history a source of strength.
``In our own time, the emphasis on the new and the present and the now has gotten out of bounds,'' he said. ``History teaches us that sooner is not necessarily better. Whatever difficulties we face, others before us have had it worse.''
McCullough said students lacking a basic knowledge of history will grow up without a sense of perspective.
``We have to stand for the idea that every event, every life ... is a great stone dropped in a pond with ripples'' that affect others, he said.
McCullough is the author of six books, including a biography of President Truman. He received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree from the college this weekend.
The ceremonies were part of the college's annual Charter Day.
- Associated Press
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