The Place of the Past in American Life

David Glassberg spoke about the historical significance of the battle at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, that opened the Revolutionary War. Professor Glassberg’s research concerns the history of popular historical consciousness in America as represented in politics, culture, and the environment. He titled his talk “Making Historical Places” and spoke about the significance of the anniversary of a commemorative act as commemorating an important event in the history of commemoration. Professor Glassberg illustrated his talk with slides and then responded to questions from members of the audience.

The program “Sense of History: The Place of the Past in American Life” was part of the year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Minute Man National Historical Park. The event, co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Historical Society and the Concord Free Public Library, took place June 10, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. at the Minute Man Visitor Center in Lexington. close