Event | April 23, 2026
Taxes
How have debates over taxation shaped American history and its democracy? Vanessa Williamson (Brookings) discusses her new book with Justene Hill Edwards, UVA associate professor of history.
Past Events
Event | April 10, 2026
A Nation at 250: Virginia Student Oratory Contest
In commemoration of America's 250th anniversary, Virginia undergrads deliver speeches centered on the prompt “Tell the story of a Virginian who embodies the Declaration of Independence.”
Event | March 27, 2026
Indigenous Democratic Traditions: Before America’s 250th & Beyond
Explore the foundations and futures of tribal governance and how they have contributed—and continue to contribute—to the broader democratic landscape of the United States.
Event | March 27, 2026
Indigenous Democratic Traditions: Arts Workshop
Learn the traditional craft ways of gourd painting, through this hands-on workshop with Deborah Wilkinson.
Event | March 26, 2026
Home
As the British occupied cities from Boston to Savannah during the American Revolution, how did the household become a crucial zone of meaning and transformation? Lauren Duval (Karsh Institute fellow) will discuss her new book with Jane Kamensky (Monticello).
Event | February 25, 2026
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi: Congress as a Cornerstone of American Democracy
Speaker Emerita of the House Nancy Pelosi speaks on the important role Congress plays in meeting Americans’ needs.
Event | February 19, 2026
Religion
What is the role of religion in public life and how has religious thought given shape to American democracy and religious freedom? Jerome Copulsky (Georgetown University) and Adam Jortner (Auburn University) will discuss their new books in a conversation with Nichole Flores (UVA Religion).
Event | December 3, 2025
Art
The American Revolution was fought not just with muskets but also through works of art that articulated revolutionary ideals. Zara Anishanslin (University of Delaware) will join Douglas Fordham (UVA Art) to discuss her book "The Painter’s Fire: A Forgotten History of the Artists Who Championed the American Revolution."
Event | November 10, 2025
Opportunity in America
An exploration of the complex interplay between social class and race in shaping opportunity and inequality in America.
Event | November 6, 2025
America
How has the history of the United States been shaped by its relationship with Latin American nations? Pulitzer Prize–winning author Greg Grandin (Yale University) will discuss his new book, "America, América: A New History of the New World" with Anne Garland Mahler (UVA Spanish).