Former Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton have joined a collaborative project aimed at reflecting on the legacies of American presidents and first ladies, while navigating contemporary political anxieties.
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a notable collaborative effort, former Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton have contributed essays to the In Pursuit project, a series commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. This initiative invites a range of contributors, including historians and authors, to explore the lives and legacies of American presidents and first ladies. Each essay aims to provide insights into the lessons learned from these historical figures, while explicitly avoiding contemporary partisan politics.
The project, curated by Colleen Shogan, the U.S. archivist who was dismissed without explanation by former President Donald Trump, has drawn attention for its objective to transcend current political divisions. Shogan emphasized that all contributors adhered closely to instructions designed to maintain a nonpartisan tone. “Everybody took those instructions and that guidance very seriously,” Shogan stated in an interview. “The goal was for all Americans to feel welcome to be able to read these lessons and essays and learn something from them.”
Historical Context and Objectives
The In Pursuit project seeks to “surface the lessons from the past 250 years of American history,” according to Shogan, so that the nation can learn from both successes and failures as it navigates present and future challenges. The essays are being published weekly, running through December, and cover 43 presidents—excluding the current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump—along with 30 first ladies. The choice to exclude Biden and Trump reflects a determination to allow history to provide a more balanced perspective, as both figures are still active in the political arena.
Bush’s essay, which honors George Washington, the nation’s first president, subtly addresses contemporary issues without directly referencing Trump. Bush praises Washington for his “heroism of humility,” particularly in his decision to relinquish power voluntarily. This action, he argues, set a crucial precedent for the presidency and exemplifies the importance of leadership grounded in democratic principles. “George Washington’s humility in giving up power willingly remains among the most consequential decisions and important examples in American politics,” Bush wrote.
Reflections on Leadership
Retired General Stanley McChrystal, who commanded U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan, contributed an essay on Ulysses S. Grant, highlighting the importance of prioritizing constitutional values over personal loyalty. This theme resonates with current discussions surrounding loyalty within political circles. “The temptation to bend institutions toward personal power is not unique to Grant’s era,” McChrystal noted, emphasizing that today’s leaders must choose law over loyalty.
In the latest installment, Bill Clinton reflects on Theodore Roosevelt, focusing on his efforts to broaden the inclusivity of “we the people,” while also addressing Roosevelt’s exclusionary views towards Black and Indigenous communities. The essays in this series frequently juxtapose the achievements and shortcomings of each president, presenting a more nuanced historical narrative compared to recent calls from Trump for patriotic interpretations of American history.
Contributors and Broader Engagement
The In Pursuit project features contributions from a diverse group of writers, including Chief Justice John Roberts, who writes about William Howard Taft, Hillary Clinton on Eleanor Roosevelt, and Michelle Obama on Jacqueline Kennedy. Other notable contributors include GOP strategist Karl Rove, filmmaker Ken Burns, and historian Michael Beschloss. Each essay is designed to reflect a wide range of perspectives on American leadership and history.
This project is supported by More Perfect, a nonpartisan coalition of presidential centers, academics, and organizations committed to fostering democratic engagement. Shogan, who was removed from her position as archivist in February 2025, has expressed her commitment to maintaining a nonpartisan approach in her work. Despite her dismissal, she remains focused on her role in advancing historical understanding through the In Pursuit series.
Public Reception and Impact
Shogan has reported a robust public response to the series, suggesting a broad appetite for historical narratives that are free from partisan bias. The essays have garnered over 1 million views on Substack, and her accompanying podcast has received significant engagement with 160,000 audio downloads and nearly 64,000 views on YouTube. Additionally, a documentary about the series is scheduled to air on PBS in October, further extending the reach of these historical discussions.
Through the In Pursuit project, readers are encouraged to explore the complexities of American history and leadership, learning not only about well-known figures but also lesser-known presidents like Millard Fillmore and Franklin Pierce. The essays serve as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of American governance and the lessons that can be drawn from both its triumphs and its failures.
