Historian David McCullough On CNN: What Makes An Exceptional President (VIDEO)

Fareed Zakaria talked to Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough about what makes a great president.

McCullough should know. The famed historian has written three award-winning presidential biographies (Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Truman and John Adams). His most recent book, "The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris," has also already received critical acclaim.

So, what is the answer? Along with the expected answers of "an ability to stick to your principles" and "an ability to work with people with whom you disagree and may dislike," McCullough delivers some unexpected answers as well.

However, McCullough makes sure to note, "Exceptional presidents are the exception. We can't expect every president to be a great president."

Check out the following video for McCullough's full response. Like McCullough, but looking for something lighter? Click here for Stephen Colbert's interview with the history buff.