The work done by the citizenry of this nation in the last quarter of the eighteenth century was fundamental to the establishment of our nation. But a valid argument exists that without the aid of foreign supporters the nation’s foundation would not have succeeded. Delve into the philosophies, communications, and actions of a handful of significant men, Lafayette, von Steuben, Pulaski, Rochambrau and others, that directly contributed to the existence of the U.S. 

NEW Katz will present excerpts from his numerous historical documentaries, explore the journey that led him to this work, and excavate some of Philadelphia's most interesting characters, events and stories. The portfolio of historical documentaries covers numerous moments that have been unsung, hidden or simply forgotten. Sam and History Making Productions have been awarded 18 Emmys and were the 2021 Winners of the Ken Burns Prize for Film.

NEW John Dewey lived a long time and engaged with many interesting figures in American history. In honor of America's 250th birthday, explore Dewey's professional relationships with William James (philosophy), Jane Addams (education), Albert Barnes (art), and George Norris (politics). Enjoy an entertaining and instructive look at some of America's most fascinating minds at work.

NEW World PA 250 NEW "Quakers came to do good and ended up doing well." is oft repeated because there is so much truth to it. Examine the early Philadelphians who applied the Quaker Ethos to their business endeavors, experienced unrivaled prosperity, and enabled Philadelphia to become an economic force in the world.

The America that we know began as a unique idea; ordinary people could be sovereign citizens that would govern themselves. Turn back the pages of history two and a half centuries and examine how some extraordinary men, Hamilton, Knox, Madison and Morris, labored to make this idea a reality. Learn of their backgrounds and the interactions that allowed them to form history’s first and longest living people’s federal representative republic. 

NEW From trans high school athletes to Israel-Palestine, some prominent issues in American politics directly affect only small fractions of voters. Do voters respond differently to symbolic issues, those with few tangible impacts on most citizens? Consider evidence from a large-scale 2026 survey. Daniel Hopkins, Prof, Poli Sci, UPenn

NEW Individual Quakers prospered in the New World. See how, led by William Penn and his Holy Experiment, Philadelphians developed the cultural foundations of America that led this country to unparalleled success in all aspects. Examine their contributions to American Exceptionalism.

NEW Honor the contributions, struggles and sacrifices made by Algonkian people during the War of American Independence. Explore the unique material culture and trade of Algonkian and Iroquoian people. Navigate the complex political paths of patriotism, Toryism and neutrality that these people trod as they worked to preserve their way of life in the face of overwhelming odds. Consider both the devastation of the Sullivan Campaign and the Algonkian contributions to the shape of history. Light refreshments available.