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Join us at the table and explore America's story in the words of those who lived it.

Register for "First Ladies"

June 13, 2024, 8:30 AM CT - 2:30 PM CT | Hosted by: Region 8 ESC (Pittsburg, TX) | Discussion Leader: Professor Elizabeth Amato - Gardner-Webb University

The leadership and political possibilities that the position of first lady held were unanticipated by the constitutional convention that created the presidency. Nevertheless, from Martha Washington to Jill Biden, first ladies have been political strategists, formal hostesses, advisors, political surrogates, campaigners, and activists. We will examine how first ladies grappled with the demands of being first lady and exercising her influence in her own right. 

This program will be conducted as a Socratic discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Discussion Leader facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. Teachers will receive a Letter of Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar. 

Registration

Teaching American History
Testimonial
"It gave me a better understanding of the Founders’ views. They saw that restricting religious liberty is not only wrong; it leads to animosity within society. This year, I will begin both my government class and my class on “Law and Modern Society” with George Washington’s Letter to the Hebrew Congregation at Newport." — Sean B.