Vol. XVII

In an exclusive interview, financier David Rubenstein discusses "patriotic philanthropy," his movement to preserve historic American objects and sites and to advance history education. Documents including the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independence, and the 14th Amendment.  Places like Jefferson's Monticello, Madison's Montpelier, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

"The beginning of philanthropic philanthropy happened by serendipity," explains Rubenstein.

"I came from modest circumstances.  I want to give back to my country," he reflects.

"The theory of representative democracy is that you have an informed citizenry who can make be informed decisions, and it ultimately leads to better government," says Rubenstein.  "If more people learn about the past, the fewer mistakes they are likely to make, and they will be better citizens for the future.”