Old North Illuminated Presents ‘Been There, Done That: How Our History Shows What We Can Overcome’ with Greg Jackson

Join Old North Illuminated for an engaging online conversation with historian Greg Jackson exploring how today’s political climate isn’t as unprecedented as we may think. Set for Tuesday, June 23, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., this virtual event will examine how our nation’s past is full of massive upheaval, disagreement, and departures from the moral high ground that mirror our current moment. In his forthcoming book Been There, Done That, Prof. Jackson argues that the political “gentlemanly conduct” of yesteryear is no more than a myth, and that our worst historical selves have never managed to defeat our better angels. From the Founding Fathers’ hyperpartisan print wars of the 1790s to the caning of Senator Charles Sumner in 1856 to the thoroughly corrupt presidential election of 1876, Prof. Jackson draws on some of the messier moments in American history to inspire hope for where we’re headed. The program is part of Old North Illuminated’s ongoing commitment to public history and community dialogue. This virtual event is accessible with a donation of any amount to support Old North Illuminated, the nonprofit that stewards Old North Church Historic Site. The 2026 Speaker Series is brought to you in part by HUB Town Tours. To register, please visit: https://www.oldnorth.com/events/.