Mr. Weinstein interviewed Lynne Cheney at an evening event hosted by the National Archives. Mrs. Cheney talked about her book A Time for Freedom: What Happened When in America, published by Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing, based on a timeline of key moments in American history. Ms. Cheney explained that it is important for Americans to learn the details of American history, including westward expansion and the sacrifices that were made by American soldiers. She asserted that these historical events help people fully appreciate being citizens of the United States. Mrs. Cheney focused on great American leaders and presidents, the importance of teaching American history to young people, and her experiences and reflections on writing about American history. Following the interview, she answered questions submitted by members of the audience.

This interview, “A Chronology of Freedom: A Talk with Lynne Cheney,” was the first of the National Archives American Conversations, a series of informal conversations between the archivist and people who’ve shaped the dialogue about the interpretation and use of American heritage.