As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of independence, it is an ideal time to think about the importance and meaning of the American Revolution in the nation’s history. For two and a half centuries, Americans have told and retold the story of the Revolution, visually depicted its most important scenes, visited historical sites, and engaged in reenactments of its most famous moments.

In this talk, historian Michael D. Hattem will discuss the unique role of the Revolution in American history and culture as our national “origin myth.” He will explore how, for two and a half centuries, Americans have constantly revised the meanings and ideals of the Revolution in ways that have always been shaped by their own times. Hattem will also address how and why Americans have always had a uniquely emotional connection to the memory of the Revolution.

The lecture will begin at 6PM. Following the lecture, a reception will be held at 7PM with an optional book signing by our speaker. Books will be available for purchase at the Tryon Palace Museum Store.

About Our Speaker
Michael D. Hattem is a historian of the American Revolution. He received his PhD in History at Yale University and has taught at The New School and Knox College. He is the author of The Memory of ’76: The Revolution in American History (Yale University Press, 2024), which was a finalist for the 2025 George Washington Prize, and Past and Prologue: Politics and Memory in the American Revolution (Yale University Press, 2020). Hattem’s work has been featured or mentioned in The New York Times, TIME magazine, The Smithsonian Magazine, the Washington Post, as well as many other mainstream media publications and outlets. He has served as a historical consultant or contributor for a number of projects and organizations, curated historical exhibitions, appeared in television documentaries, and authenticated and written catalogue essays for historical document auctions.