Local author’s book combines U.S. history and Bible lessons

A new book by local historian and international Christian missionary Fred Hageman combines biblical and historical teachings with personal anecdotes to offer life lessons in this tumultuous, pivotal time in the U.S. and the world.

“Lessons from Our Forefathers: How History and the Bible Impact Our Lives” presents these teachings in an educational, entertaining and inspirational fashion, raising timeless yet currently relevant issues such as discovering one’s purpose, letting go of failure, taking individual responsibility, overcoming prejudice, restoring this nation and even facing death.

After his second mission trip to the West African country of Ghana two years ago, Hageman’s wife suggested he write a book using material from the talks he gave there. Each chapter uses lessons incorporating American history and Scripture to address the development of desired character traits such as courage, persistence and faith to help readers grow spiritually both as individuals and within their churches, communities and country. These lessons include action steps and affirmations that will inspire readers to lead more fulfilling lives and realize that the same God who has been leading them all along can still guide them today.

Hageman illustrates many milestones in U.S. history including several in his beloved Delaware, such as how the small band of U.S. militiamen led by George Washington braved exhaustion and starvation to cross the frozen Delaware River, and defeat British and German soldiers who far outnumbered them in order to defend this nation’s freedom. Hageman shows how U.S. history is a story of a uniquely blessed country with a special place in world events. Although he and his family have lived in other states, he was raised in Delaware and returned 15 years ago to settle here. He and his wife of 51 years have three children and five grandchildren. He earned a B.S. from the University of Delaware and an M.S. from American University in Washington, D.C. Hageman had a long career in government and industry, and taught history at three colleges prior to becoming an author.

He can be contacted for book signings and speaking engagements via email to hageman.fred@yahoo.com or on Facebook. The book is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions. Hageman’s blog can be found at fredhageman.wordpress.com.