History will come alive in Chester Springs on Monday, May 11, when a pair of professors from Delaware County Community College join a University of Pennsylvania scholar for a public discussion inspired by the new PBS documentary series, The American Revolution.

The event, taking place from 5 to 7 PM at the Henrietta Hankin Library, located at 215 Windgate Drive in Chester Springs, will feature a screening of highlights from the documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns. A panel comprised of DCCC history professors Jeffrey LaMonica and Dr. Kevin Cahill, as well as Rogers Smith, the Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Political Science at Penn, will then explore the ideas, conflicts, and lasting impact of America’s founding era.

The evening comes at a time when interest in Revolutionary-era history is growing ahead of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations. Attendees will have a chance to engage with experts who study not just the battles and political figures of the period, but also the deeper questions about democracy, citizenship, sacrifice, and freedom that continue to shape the country today.

LaMonica has published work on topics that include the U.S Army in World War I, Cold War Diplomacy, and Italian Military History. His interests in the American Revolution include Pennsylvania Militia in the 1777 Philadelphia Campaign and Privateers of the Cape May Navy. Cahill holds a Ph.D. in history from West Virginia University and has been a professor of American history at DCCC since 2000.

Smith is the author or co-author of many articles and nine books, including Civic Ideals: Conflicting Visions of Citizenship in U.S. History, a finalist for the 1998 Pulitzer Prize in History.

Light refreshments will follow the panel. The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve a spot early for what promises to be a timely and thought-provoking evening of history, conversation, and reflection.