Ben Railton (Fitchburg State University) argues that throughout our history two competing yet interconnected concepts have battled to define our national identity and community: exclusionary and inclusive visions of who gets to be an American. From the earliest moments of European contact with indigenous peoples, through the Revolutionary period's debates on African American slavery, 19th century conflicts over Indian Removal, Mexican landowners, and Chinese immigrants, 20th century controversies around Filipino Americans and Japanese internment, and 21st century fears of Muslim Americans, time and again this defining battle has shaped our society and culture.

There will be a pre-talk reception at 5:30. Please follow the ticketing link to register. There is a $10 per person fee (no charge for MHS Fellows and Members, EBT or ConnectorCare cardholders).