Discover the competing visions of America and the consequential thinkers who shaped the writing of our Constitution.
“Secrets and Backstories of the U.S. Constitution” offers a vivid, behind‑the‑scenes look at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, a gathering held entirely in secret inside the Pennsylvania Statehouse for nearly four intense months.
This session dives into the competing visions of government that collided in Philadelphia that summer, and the strong-willed personalities who shaped the often heated debates that unfolded among 55 of the most consequential thinkers in American history. Alongside the famous moments, you’ll uncover surprising, lesser‑known episodes that reveal just how fragile — and visionary — this pivotal event in our history truly was.
What to Expect:
We begin with the turbulent history leading up to the Convention, then move into the summer of 1787 itself — the arguments, alliances, compromises, and clashing philosophies that shaped the final document. We’ll explore the competing visions for America’s future and meet the historical figures whose convictions left a permanent mark on the Constitution. Joseph welcomes questions and lively conversation throughout.
Wednesday | April 29 | 1:30 – 3 pm | HYBRID (your choice to enjoy in person, thru Zoom, or wait for the recording) | $30