Declaration: The Untold Stories Behind America’s Founding Document

Document Type

Lecture

Publication Date

6-30-2026

Abstract

Part of the Our Shared Future: America 250

Robert Watson, Distinguished Professor of American History at Lynn University, reveals the lesser-known stories, surprising twists, and forgotten voices behind the most iconic document in U.S. history. Drawing from a wealth of primary sources—including letters, diaries, newspapers, and diplomatic communiqués—he reconstructs the debates, drafts, and drama that surrounded the creation of the Declaration of Independence. Focusing on the influence of women, enslaved individuals, and Indigenous peoples, Watson brings to light the varied cast of often-forgotten characters and perspectives that shaped the American experiment in his book, Declaration: The Story of American Independence. Delivered via Zoom.

Host

Smithsonian Associates

City/State

Washington, DC

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

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