By Matt McDonald
CNA Staff, Dec 14, 2024 / 14:37 pm
Author and Catholic convert Lee Edwards, one of the foremost historians of the conservative movement in America, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92.
Edwards was a co-founder of the Victims of Communism Memorial in Washington, D.C., which was authorized by Congress in 1993 and completed in 2007.
He held the position of distinguished fellow of conservative thought at The Heritage Foundation for approximately 25 years until his retirement about a year ago.
Edwards was also a prolific author, having written 25 books. His works include well-known histories of American conservatives and conservatism, as well as lesser-known pieces such as “John Paul II In Our Nation’s Capital,” the official account of the pope’s visit to the Archdiocese of Washington in October 1979.
“He was an optimist, very much upbeat. He believed God had a plan for each of us,” said his daughter, author and political scientist Elizabeth Spalding, in an interview with CNA.
Anti-Communism
The turning point in Edwards’ life’s work came in 1956 while he was taking graduate classes at the Sorbonne in Paris. It was during this time that Hungarians, including students of his age, briefly overthrew the Communist government there.
“And for those almost two weeks, my dad thought, ‘This is it. This is it. We’re going to beat Communism,’” Spalding shared with CNA.
However, the Soviet Red Army invaded Hungary, crushed the revolt, and restored Communist rule, marking a significant setback in the fight against Communism.
The United States and its Western allies failed to take action, a pivotal moment that sparked a lifelong mission for Lee Edwards. Inspired by his father’s dedication to defeating Communism and supporting freedom fighters, Edwards co-founded Young Americans for Freedom in 1960, working closely with Republican figures like Barry Goldwater.
In 1967, Edwards delved into a political biography of Ronald Reagan during his early years as governor of California. His close interactions with Reagan and Nancy Reagan revealed the President’s code term, “the Divine Plan,” symbolizing his vision for the country. Despite a publishing mishap following Reagan’s assassination attempt in 1981, Edwards treasured the opportunity to meet Reagan in the Oval Office and present him with the updated book.
A staunch advocate for freedom and conservatism, Edwards expressed his life’s purpose in his autobiography “Just Right,” emphasizing his dedication to liberty. His biographies of Reagan, Goldwater, Meese, and F. Buckley reflect his commitment to preserving American values. Subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring stories about individuals like Lee Edwards who have shaped our nation’s history.
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