Explore the life and times of Dorchester County’s two-term U.S. senator, George L. Radcliffe. Over three sessions, his grandson, George M. Radcliffe, Jr., will explore the life of his grandfather as chronicled in his recently-published book, Call me Cousin George: A Personal Look at the Life of Sen. George L. Radcliffe.
The author’s historical discussion will not only give us an intimate view of the senator’s life, but will also provide us a unique glimpse into almost 100 years of United States history, from the post-Civil War period to Watergate. Senator Radcliffe worked closely with three U.S. presidents and was a senator during the post-Depression era and World War II. His life parallels many of the significant changes in our country during that period, and he stands in remarkable contrast to much of the politics of today since “Cousin George,” as most called him, was a true gentleman politician, frequently nonpartisan and always using his extensive knowledge of history to make decisions.
George Junior will not only highlight aspects of this remarkable life but delve into some of the critical moments in American history from the days of slavery on the Eastern Shore.
Session 1: George L. Radcliffe: Always an Eastern Shoreman
Growing up on a poor farm in Dorchester County and deemed too sickly to attend school, he accomplished more than most in a lifetime. His civic achievements and remarkable historical preservation can all be traced back to his Eastern Shore roots.
Session 2: The Political Life of Sen. George L. Radcliffe
Chance encounters and his close friendship with Franklin Roosevelt led a shy Eastern Shore boy to the United States Senate. We’ll look at his unique senate career and contrast that with what we see in Washington today.
Session 3: The Evolution of Race in the Life of Sen. Radcliffe
Sen. Radcliffe was born on a property with enslaved workers, yet his views evolved over almost a century. We’ll look at unique influences and individuals that shaped his ideas over time and see how he, like so many others, struggled to adjust his views in a changing world.
Bonus Session! A personal tour of the 1663 Homestead of Spocott Farm on March 21 is included in this course (see more under Tour of the 1663 Homestead of Spocott Farm with George Radcliffe, Jr. on Tues, Mar 21).
What to expect: Rather than just simply a series of lectures, this will be an interactive look at history and many issues still current today. You will learn local, state, and national history by examining the accomplishments of a prominent Eastern Shore figure as we recall anecdotes, humorous stories, and little-known facts, and see how his accomplishments are rooted in his rural beginnings where he struggled to adjust to a changing world.
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