In the summer of 1787, 55 delegates met in Philadelphia to revise the now-floundering Articles of Confederation. They emerged with a new U.S. Constitution—but the discussions and drafting largely happened behind closed doors. The question of slavery pervaded those discussions, as did the critical divide between “small state” and “large state” delegates. How did these secret discussions mol
d the Constitution? Who are “We the People,” with which begins the Preamble to the Constitution? Is the purpose of the Constitution to govern individuals, to preserve states as the primary governing bodies, or both? And how do we know what took place in these secret conversations at all? Join archaeologist Jim Gibb for a look at the tumultuous creation of America’s most important document.
This event is entirely in person. Attendees 12 years and older are welcome to join.
All minors must be accompanied by an adult. Talks are free, but space is limited, so advance signup is required!
In anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary, join us at our 1735 Woodlawn History Center for a series of in-person talks exploring our country’s often bumpy road towards freedom and self-determination. In a new 9-part (expanded from six parts!) series, explore the creation of the U.S. Constitution. This series is a sequel to the “Road To Independence” series from spring 2025. It will highlight the deficiencies of the initial Articles of Confederation, the refinement of such ideas as the “sovereignty of the people,” and the development of our nation’s “owners’ manual,” the document that instructs government as to its role in American society and the U.S. Constitution’s constraints on government. All talks hosted by archaeologist Jim Gibb, head of the SERC Enviromental Archaeology Lab. Talks will take place the first Saturday of the month at 2pm, unless otherwise noted. Join for one talk or for all—previous attendance not required!
