What We Can Learn from Past Presidents | Amanpour and Company

The legacies of today's leaders will be shaped by their handling of the coronavirus pandemic. But how are they stacking up against the presidents and prime ministers of yesteryear? In a candid conversation with Walter Isaacson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and presidential biographer Jon Meacham dissects the performance of President Trump in this crisis, and talks about his latest book, “The Hope of Glory."

Originally aired on April 3, 2020.

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Amanpour and Company features wide-ranging, in-depth conversations with global thought leaders and cultural influencers on the issues and trends impacting the world each day, from politics, business and technology to arts, science and sports. Christiane Amanpour leads the conversation on global and domestic news from London with contributions by prominent journalists Walter Isaacson, Michel Martin, Alicia Menendez and Hari Sreenivasan from the Tisch WNET Studios at Lincoln Center in New York City.

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[christinedarrock]

I could listen to this man all day. So intelligent and articulate.

[charlottegillbanks]

Hearing Jon Meacham speak anchors me to a sense of calm and reality. Thank you!

[tekannon]

Dear Ms Amanpour, Mr Isaacson and Mr Meacham, Thank you Ms Amanpour for some of the most thought-provoking, heart-warming interviews and documentaries throughout your illustrious career. This is the first time one doesn't need to hear a word from the distinguished historian; one look at his face and you get a book's worth of words thrown at you. Never have I seen someone who's bright demeanor filled our television screens and spoke eloquently about past présidents look so despondent. Optomism was his trademark; the turned-down look tells us what we already know. There is a president in The Oval Office in April of 2020 who is woefully short of leadership abilities and all of you in America have no choice but to bear with President Trump's lack of skills.

[charlietrece]

Living in a “Fool’s paradise” what a great analogy to describe this president.

[TheDavidlloydjones]

Isaacson, Meacham, Amanpour: class act trifecta!

[liberator]

John Meecham always makes so much sense. And he’s witty too. ☺️

[mpetry]

really fantastic interview with a person who has an amazing historical perspective

[PaulaJoW]

"The British people can face any misfortune with fortitude and buoyancy as long as they are convinced that those who are in charge of their affairs are not deceiving them or are not dwelling in a fool's paradise." Winston Churchill. Good interview. I subscribed.

[misab.alexandranicholas]

Very interesting. Can't stop listening to this gentleman. I'll surely get his book ASAP. Brilliant 👍 love from SINGAPORE 🇸🇬

[moonmunster]

Lincoln was a great man and president. If only we had someone like that now.

[moonpathwoman]

The best speaker and interview I’ve heard for too long. Bravo!

[TheHudah]

The sheer insincerity of today’s leaders is astounding, thank you for this. It’s pretty much the same here in India.

[harrissimo]

Bush believed in the system. This is an important point. Integrity, honesty, calmness. All the qualities that Trump lacks.

[naderbijarchi]

"THE ONLY THING WE HAVE TO FEAR IS TRUMP."

[Dr.LessCharacter]

John Meachem! You make Tn. proud, i enjoy your intellect every time I watch. .

[poshcat]

Mr. Meacham should be heard, man of integrity. He’s the kind of guy you want to listen to when the world is on the verge of insanity and uncertainty. Thank You sir for a very fair and sound thoughts, it brings so much clarity and positivity. I’d like to believe that there’s more of you out there that can make America retrace their steps and realize what America is about.

[moejaime]

I was a republican at one time now I still have some conservative views yet the one thing I wish is ; that Trump or someone like Trump never becomes president again from any party !!

[jackdayton]

Inshort elect a clown expect a circus. Jbn

[procon]

MR. JON MEACHAM, WHAT A GREAT MAN...THANK YOU FOR EDUCATING OUR IGNORANCE. I HOPE SOMEONE, PRETENDING TO BE BLIND AND DEFT IS WATCHING AND LISTEN!

[slowcarbgirl]

...." like a car wreck ya just gotta watch..." LOL!!