Eric Foner, one of the most acclaimed and influential US historians, talks with the Presidents of American Ancestors and Massachusetts Historical Society about his work over five decades and his just-published book, Our Fragile Freedoms, an insightful guide to our history and why it matters. Don’t miss this thought-provoking and inspiring discussion about history, its research, and meaning.

A preeminent historian of the Civil War era, Eric Foner joins us to discuss the importance of researching and writing about America’s history and his latest published work. Our Fragile Freedoms collects Foner’s recent essays and demonstrates the range of his interests and expertise: from slavery to antislavery, through disunion and the remaking of the United States in the nineteenth century; Jim Crow, to the civil rights movement, and into our era. Foner takes up such towering figures as Washington, Lincoln, Douglass, and Rosa Parks, and pivotal events including the Fugitive Slave Act and the Tulsa Race Massacre. Don’t miss this masterful historian’s insights and conversation with Ryan J. Woods of American Ancestors and Lisa Krassner of Massachusetts Historical Society.

Presented by American Ancestors' American Inspiration Author series in partnership with Massachusetts Historical Society. 

Eric Foner's indelible works include the landmark history, Reconstruction: America’s Unfinished Revolution; a bestselling study of Lincoln and slavery, The Fiery Trial, winner of the Pulitzer, Bancroft, and Lincoln Prizes; and an influential history of the Reconstruction amendments, The Second Founding. The DeWitt Clinton Professor Emeritus of History at Columbia University, he has worked to bring up-to-date history to audiences outside the academic world.

Lisa Krassner is President of the Massachusetts Historical Society. With over two decades of leadership experience in the museum and cultural sectors, she brings a deep commitment to history, cultural preservation, and public engagement to the Society. She is passionate about examining shared history, amplifying underrepresented voices, and connecting lessons of the past with the challenges and opportunities of the present. Prior to joining the MHS, Lisa was the Edward W. Kane Executive Director of the Concord Museum.

Ryan J. Woods is President and CEO of American Ancestors. An educator and historian, he has his dedicated professional life to developing experiences that educate, inspire, and connect people through the exploration of history, heritage, and culture. Ryan has recruited more than 1 billion searchable records to AmericanAncestors.org and, most recently, overseen the launch of the 10 Million Names Project and our new national headquarters and visitor center including the Family Heritage Experience at 97 Newbury Street in Boston.