Times of war create opportunities, but disadvantaged communities are constrained for realizing them. Compare the experiences of workers in two Navy Yards: Washington D.C. during the Civil War and World War II in Boston.
Connections and Conversations, A Tale of Two Navy Yards: Washington D.C. and Boston
Presenters: Chandra Manning, Georgetown University and Polly Kienle, National Parks of Boston
Times of war disrupt and create opportunities, but not evenly. Disadvantaged communities are constrained from realizing them. Compare the experiences of workers in two Navy Yards: Washington D.C. during the Civil War and Boston during World War II.
Civil War Washington had all the chaos of a boom town. Enslaved people, formerly enslaved people, lawmakers, sailors, and soldiers all jostled against each other as the nation prepared for war. In order meet World War II production goals, the Navy Yard in Boston needed four times as many workers and hired women to accomplish the task at hand.
Join us while we explore questions: Who benefited from the opportunities? Who imposed the constraints? And who battled against them? Who was last hired and first fired?
Free Admission. No ticket required.
Phone: 617-242-5601
Additional time info:
Twice per month the National Parks of Boston presents Connections and Conversations. Explore local history from home and away. Compare stories across time, distance and perspective. Exchange ideas and ask questions of park rangers and public historians.
Each program will include two presentations, followed by ample time for questions and answers with both presenters. Connections and Conversations will take place the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm (eastern time) live via WebEx.
2021/02/24 - 2021/02/24
Boston NHP
Charlestown Navy Yard, 21 Second Ave, Charlestown, MA 02129