American Inspiration

People of every background imagine new worlds. The impulse to seek new places is universal to humanity. In Explorers, historian Matthew Lockwood unfurls a tapestry of surprising and historically overlooked figures spanning forty centuries and six continents; he illuminates their lives filled with imagination and wonder, curiosity, connection, and exchange.

Moderated by Margaret Talcott

A pre-eminent scholar of Atlantic history and the award-winning author of The Slave Ship, Marcus Rediker joins us to share his definitive, sweeping account of the Underground Railroad’s long-overlooked maritime origins.

Moderated by Lee Blake

In this unique panel our guest speakers will focus on the defining years of 1860-1920 and bring to life the experiences of a great variety of Americans, from the enslaved-then-free peoples and soldiers who marched with Union Civil War General Sherman to immigrants, workers, Native Americans, and women. Don’t miss learning more about Bennett Parten’s and Manisha Sinha’s groundbreaking research, new books, and insightful discussion with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Alan Taylor. 

Today’s U. S. highway system began with an unforgettable, exploratory, cross-country ride, led by a 28-year-old Army lieutenant colonel, Dwight Eisenhower. As we launch into summer travel, don’t miss the story of Ike’s coast-to-coast journey—two historians’ in-depth look at Ike’s dream of connecting our country with roads, and at Americans’ evolving experience and passion for driving.  

Moderated by Ted Widmer

Special for Father’s Day! The whole family will enjoy this evening’s exploration of fatherhood, from the invention of this fundamental institution in the Bronze Age through its transformation to the present day. Augustine Sedgewick’s bold and original work of history provides a collective portrait of emblematic fathers who have helped to define how the world should be ruled and what it means to be a man.