National Archives Public Programs in April

WASHINGTON, DC

In April, the National Archives will present free public programs at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, and online. Be sure to catch the conversation between the Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan and President of the National Constitution Center and author Jeffrey Rosen as they discuss what “the pursuit of happiness” meant to six of the most influential founders of our nation.

These programs are free and open to the public. Attendees for programs held in the William G. McGowan Theater of the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, should use the Special Events entrance on Constitution Avenue at 7th Street, NW. Attendees for programs held in the Archivist’s Reception Room, should enter at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue.  Metro accessible on the Yellow and Green lines, Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter station.

(Virtual) The 1936 Berlin Olympic Games: Teaching Americans and the Holocaust with National Archives Primary Sources
Thursday, April 11, at 7 p.m. ET
Register to attend virtually; watch the livestream on the National Archives YouTube Channel
The 1936 Berlin Olympic Games were more than just a worldwide sporting event; they were a show of Nazi propaganda, stirring significant debate. Amid reports of the German Reich’s human rights abuses and growing militarism, people in the United States and Europe called for a boycott. Come learn why the boycott movement narrowly failed and what the role of Americans was in the debate. Refill your toolkit with a diverse collection of resources and strategies for teaching “Americans and the Holocaust” and the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. Middle school and high school teachers in every discipline are invited to participate in this free virtual workshop co-hosted by the National Archives and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Speakers: Breanne Robertson, Cynthia Peterman, Christina Chavarria, Eric Schmalz

(Virtual) The National Archives Comes Alive: Young Learners Program: Meet Ruth Patrick
Thursday, April 18, at 11 a.m. ET
Register to attend virtually; watch the livestream on the National Archives YouTube Channel
Ruth Patrick—botanist, limnologist, and recipient of the National Medal of Science—was a pioneer in freshwater ecology who broke gender barriers in the early 20th century. She gained world renown when she developed what is known as the “Patrick Principle,” which identified the importance of biological diversity in creating a more balanced river ecosystem. Dr. Patrick has advised five Presidents of the United States on water quality and pollution. Ruth Patrick is portrayed by Carol Spacht of American Historical Theatre. 

Women’s History programming is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of Denise Gwyn Ferguson.

(In-Person and Virtual) The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America
Wednesday, April 24, at 6 p.m. ET
Archivist’s Reception Room (enter via entrance at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue)
Register to attend in person; watch the livestream on the National Archives YouTube Channel
President of the National Constitution Center and author Jeffrey Rosen and Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan will discuss what “the pursuit of happiness” meant to six of the most influential founders—Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton—and how that famous phrase defined their lives and became the foundation of our democracy. A book signing will follow the program.

Seating is limited. Advance registration is suggested.

(In-Person and Virtual) Teaching the 80th Anniversary of D-Day with Primary Sources
Thursday, April 25, at 7 p.m. ET
William G. McGowan Theater (enter via Special Events entrance on Constitution Avenue at 7th Street)
Register to attend in person; watch the livestream on the National Archives YouTube Channel
Join us for an evening teacher workshop at the National Archives Museum to learn strategies and resources for teaching the history of D-Day. The program is presented in partnership with the Friends of the World War II National Memorial’s Resident Historian Alex Kershaw, National Archives education specialist Caitlin Cutrona, and Maryland-based social studies teacher Emily McDermott. A book signing with Alex Kershaw and light refreshments will follow. This event is co-presented by the National Archives and Friends of the National World War II Memorial.