Stories - Life Stories
Stories 1950 Interviews 68
Our stories are about how people make sense of their own lives, how they can shed light on our lives, and how we are connected to one another, to history, and to the larger human story.
Brother Bryan's decision to become a death row lawyer after Harvard
Mother's lessons and father's nature shaping Obama's self-confidence and destiny
Parents' encouragement to pursue sports and personal interests without limitations
Proof of life and early ransom negotiations during Jim's captivity
Strict upbringing, prom dress altercation, and early exposure to educational inequity
Mother's search for surviving family members on a community board after the Holocaust
Grief over an unresolved relationship with her mother
Raising a large family and not fully knowing Jim as an adult
Family reunion program visits and creating meaningful moments with children
Childhood Christmas memory involving siblings and late-night gift reconnaissance
Growing up with strict expectations around deference to adults
“Think about what you have done and try to leave this world a little bit better than you found it. That's all there is. You don't have to be a genius. You don't have to be anything. Just leave it a little bit better.”
Tova Friedman
Marriages, long-term love, and how to evaluate relationship success
Memories of grandfather Jack McCain's morning routine and habits
Sentencing of 27 years to life and the emotional impact on family
Family background, immigrant parents, and early political formation
Encouraging younger generations to learn their own family history
Grief, regret, and criticism of US hostage ransom policy
Role as oldest child and caregiver in an Irish Catholic family
Family tradition of watching the Indy 500 and growing up in an IndyCar household
Father's determination and family's work ethic shaping values and character
