Civil War Round Table: 19th Century Philadelphia: War, Reform, and Citizenship

As part of the America250 celebrations at the League, join Founding Forward for a special showing of Episode 5 of the documentary In Pursuit: Philadelphia and the Making of America with commentary by Executive Producer Sam Katz and Historical Consultant Jim Mundy, moderated by Founding Forward Senior Advisor John Meko.  

From the 1830s through the 1870s, Philadelphia emerged as America’s second-largest city amid the forces of economic expansion, reform, and immigration, in conflict with the Civil War, corruption, and nativism. With Irish immigration bolstering the city’s population, riots erupted between Protestants and Catholics over which Bible to use in public schools. During the Civil War, The Union League of Philadelphia rallied the city behind Lincoln and his policies, treated the wounded, raised funds, and swayed public opinion. In the war’s aftermath, the brilliant black educator Octavius Catto campaigned to desegregate streetcars, while corrupt political machines fought to keep their hold on power and suppress the black vote. In this crucial period, the modern city of Philadelphia began to take shape.   

This program will be held in person at the League House. Registration is required. This program will be held in two parts, film premiere running from 6:30pm-7:30pm and then conversation with Katz and Mundy from 7:30pm to 8:00pm. 

Reception: 6:00pm
Program: 6:30pm
End of Program: 8:00pm 

About Founding Forward and the Union League
Founding Forward, the nonprofit charity of the Union League, informs and engages citizens through transformational educational experiences grounded in American history. To learn more about Founding Forward, visit foundingforward.org, or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and/or X. 

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