Eric Foner Presents: The Second Founding, with Chris Hayes

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Eric Foner presents his latest work, The Second Founding, at St. Joseph’s College as part of the Brooklyn Voices series. The Declaration of Independence announced equality as an American ideal, but it took the Civil War and the subsequent adoption of three constitutional amendments to establish that ideal as American law. In grafting the principle of equality onto the Constitution, these revolutionary changes marked the second founding of the United States. Foner’s compact, insightful history traces the arc of these pivotal amendments from their dramatic pre-Civil War origins to their virtual nullification in the late nineteenth century. Like all great works of history, this one informs our understanding of the present as well as the past: knowledge and vigilance are always necessary to secure our basic rights. Foner discusses his work with journalist and “All In” host Chris Hayes.

Each $30 ticket includes admission to the event, as well as a hardcover copy of The Second Founding; books are distributed at the event, and additional books are for sale. Eric Foner will sign books following the discussion.