Historical Importance

Last week I had my monthly gathering with a group of local friends to lunch and interpret the current political atmosphere. This week instead of talking over each other I urged each of them to name an historical figure who they would want to join our lunch group to participate in the discussion. Interestingly, the list was composed of FDR, Kissinger, Lenin, Lincoln, Reagan, Benjamin Franklin, and Beethoven. I found it especially interesting that my friend Peter offered up Beethoven, who was the only historical figure outside of politics. It was a refreshing choice, given all the political drama these days that usually dominates our conversation. Peter suggested that Beethoven’s bold and spirited compositions, particularly during his “heroic” period, were inspired by the French and American revolutions, especially the French. Today, the official anthem of the European Union is in large part based on Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The focus on Beethoven as a symbol of artistic freedom and the power of music as a political force throughout was a refreshing contribution to our lunch.