National Treasure: The Declaration of Independence and the Future of American Democracy

As the United States approaches its 250th year, the Declaration of Independence remains both a touchstone of American political identity and a site of deep disagreement. In this event, Michael Auslin, Payson J. Treat Distinguished Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, and author of new book “National Treasure: The Declaration of Independence and America”, joins Archon Fung, Winthrop Laflin McCormack Professor of Citizenship and Self-Government and director of the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard Kennedy School, for a wide-ranging discussion of the Declaration’s historical meaning and its role in today’s polarized politics. The conversation will be moderated by Rana Mitter, S.T. Lee Professor of U.S.-Asia Relations at Harvard Kennedy School.

About the Series

As the United States marks 250 years of democracy, the Ash Center’s Democracy 250 series convenes leading scholars, policymakers and practitioners to examine the nation’s democratic past, present, and future. Through public conversations, lectures, and panels, the series explores the ideas, institutions, and challenges that have shaped American democracy—and the opportunities to strengthen it for generations to come.

Event Details

This event is open to Harvard ID holders only and registration is required.

The Ash Center encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in its events. Should you wish to inquire about an accommodation, please contact our events team at info@ash.harvard.edu prior to the event.

Additional questions? Email the Ash Center events team at info@ash.harvard.edu.