The Declaration of Independence is the defining statement of America's national identity. Indeed, Pauline Maier has described it a 'American Scripture.' Nevertheless, as often as it is quoted in our public life, the reasons for its writing and its meaning are seldom understood and often the source of heated debates.

This is understandable, as it was created by a diverse group of individuals with differing points of view. Additionally, how we interpret the Declaration is subject to time and place. In this four-part class, we will explore how and why the Declaration of Independence was written, what it meant at the time, and how its meaning has changed over time.

Four sessions. $185/$166.50. Led by Bryan LeBeau.