This talk with Dr. Richard Bell explains one of the most vexing aspects of Lincoln’s racial politics, his long-standing support for something called colonization—the government-promoted settlement of free Black Americans beyond the borders of the United States. We’ll also balance that by illuminating his impressive re-imagining of the Constitution and help listeners understand how he and his antislavery contemporaries refashioned that proslavery document into a blueprint to attack racial bondage. Finally, we’ll explain how Lincoln’s government in Washington, his commanders in the field, and enslaved people across this battered, fracturing nation all took decisive action to drive American slavery into the grave.
Registration required. Registration closes one half hour prior to lecture.
Cost: $15 per household for General Admission; $10 per household for HA Members, Military, and HA Docents