George Washington. Abraham Lincoln. Martin Luther King, Jr.

These names are (hopefully) familiar to just about every kid growing up in the United States of America. They’re individuals who shaped the times that they lived in, whose impact has trickled down even to the present day. We remember them in order to understand how our country has developed over time, but also to learn from them, exceptional individuals that they were. Sometimes they demonstrated tremendous virtue. Other times they showed weakness and vice.

But it would be a mistake to only learn from these great figures of national history. We also have to turn to the personal, to the uncles, aunts, parents, and grandparents who have much to teach us from their own pasts.

One such example is Andre Joseph Scheinmann. Although his name doesn’t have the same reach as George Washington, his story is a truly remarkable one.

Heritage Vice President Victoria Coates sat down with author Diana Mara Henry and Dr. Gabriel Scheinmann, president of the The Alexander Hamilton Society, to hear some of that story.

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The Alexander Hamilton Society: https://www.alexanderhamiltonsociety.org/

I Am Andre by Diana Mara Henry: https://www.amazon.com/Am-Andr%C3%A9-Resistance-Fighter-British/dp/191655637X

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Have thoughts? Let us know at heritageexplains@heritage.org