History of Jon Meacham in Timeline

Jon Ellis Meacham is a distinguished American writer, historian, and presidential biographer. He currently holds the position of Canon Historian at the Washington National Cathedral, a role he has served since November 7, 2021. Meacham has an extensive background in publishing and journalism, having worked as an executive editor and vice president at Random House, contributing to The New York Times Book Review, and serving as a contributing editor for Time magazine. He was also the editor-in-chief of Newsweek. Meacham is an accomplished author, notably winning the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography with his book 'American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House.' Additionally, he holds the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Endowed Chair in American Presidency at Vanderbilt University, where he contributes to historical and presidential scholarship.

1946: Birth of Jere Ellis Meacham

Jere Ellis Meacham, Jon Meacham's father, who later became a decorated Vietnam War veteran and construction executive, was born in 1946.

May 20, 1969: Birth of Jon Meacham

Jon Ellis Meacham was born on May 20, 1969, marking the beginning of the life of an influential American writer, historian, and presidential biographer.

1981: Invitation to Reagan's Inauguration

In 1981, Jon Meacham received an invitation to Ronald Reagan's inauguration after writing a letter to the president-elect, reflecting his early interest in politics.

1991: Graduation from Sewanee

Jon Meacham graduated summa cum laude and salutatorian with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature from Sewanee: The University of the South in 1991, marking a significant educational achievement.

1993: Move to Washington, D.C.

In 1993, Jon Meacham moved to Washington, D.C., where he began working as co-editor of Washington Monthly, marking a new chapter in his journalism career.

1995: Role at Newsweek

In 1995, Jon Meacham joined Newsweek as the national affairs editor, further advancing his career in journalism.

1996: Marriage to Margaret Keith Smythe

In 1996, Jon Meacham married Margaret Keith Smythe, known as Keith, who was a teacher and Fulbright scholar, marking a significant personal milestone.

1998: Managing Editor at Newsweek

Jon Meacham became the managing editor of Newsweek in late 1998, overseeing both print and online formats, illustrating his rise in the field of journalism.

2001: Release of 'Voices in Our Blood'

In 2001, Jon Meacham edited 'Voices in Our Blood: America's Best on the Civil Rights Movement', a compilation featuring writings from prominent civil-rights leaders and authors, contributing to the discourse on civil rights.

2003: Publication of 'Franklin and Winston'

Jon Meacham's book 'Franklin and Winston, Partners of an Intimate Relationship' was released in 2003, exploring the relationship between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.

2006: Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek

In 2006, Jon Meacham was appointed editor-in-chief of Newsweek, a notable achievement in his career.

2008: Death of Jere Ellis Meacham

In 2008, Jere Ellis Meacham, Jon Meacham's father, passed away, marking a significant moment in Jon's personal life.

2009: Pulitzer Prize for Biography

In 2009, Jon Meacham received the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for his work 'American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House', acknowledging his excellence in historical writing.

May 2010: Co-host of 'Need to Know'

From May 2010, Jon Meacham co-hosted the PBS program 'Need to Know' alongside Alison Stewart, further expanding his presence in broadcast journalism.

April 2011: End of 'Need to Know' Co-hosting

Jon Meacham's role as co-host on the PBS show 'Need to Know' concluded in April 2011, marking the end of this chapter in his broadcasting career.

2014: Appearance in 'The Roosevelts'

In 2014, Jon Meacham appeared in Ken Burns' documentary series 'The Roosevelts: An Intimate History', contributing his insights on the historical figures featured in the series.

2014: Teaching at University of the South

In 2014, Jon Meacham taught history at the University of the South, his alma mater, enriching the academic community with his expertise.

2015: Release of 'Destiny and Power'

In 2015, Jon Meacham published 'Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush', offering an in-depth look at the life and presidency of George H. W. Bush.

2018: Eulogies for the Bushes

In 2018, Jon Meacham delivered eulogies for both President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush, reflecting his role as the official biographer and his connection to the Bush family.

2018: Cameo in 'The Front Runner'

Jon Meacham made a cameo appearance in the 2018 film 'The Front Runner', showcasing his involvement in popular media.

2020: Speech at Democratic National Convention

In 2020, Jon Meacham spoke at the Democratic National Convention on the 'Soul of America', endorsing Joe Biden and emphasizing the importance of historical perspective in politics.

November 7, 2021: Appointment as Canon Historian

On November 7, 2021, Jon Meacham began serving as the Canon Historian of the Washington National Cathedral, a significant role in his career.

2021: Role as Canon Historian

In 2021, Jon Meacham was appointed as the Canon Historian of the Washington National Cathedral, a prestigious position that solidified his role in the historical and religious communities.

November 2022: Assistance with Pelosi's Speech

In November 2022, Jon Meacham helped Nancy Pelosi draft a speech announcing her decision not to seek reelection to House Democratic leadership, highlighting his role in political communications.