Civil War and Reconstruction: What is Freedom?

Civil War and Reconstruction

Join educator (and Civil War buff) Mike Trebilcock for an interactive program looking at all aspects of the American Civil War – from its causes to its legacy and memory. Anyone with an interest in the Civil War – expert and novice alike – is encouraged to attend.

What is Freedom? Experiences of the Freed Men and Women
Mon, Feb 16​ • 10:15-11:30 am​ • Trailside
Thurs, Feb 19 ​• 10:30-11:30 am​ • Sanford

In the months following the Civil War, millions of formerly enslaved people confronted a fundamental question: what did freedom truly mean? This program explores the everyday experiences of freed men and women in the first year after the war, as they sought to reunite families, secure paid work, build churches and schools, and claim basic legal rights.

Drawing on numerous primary sources, we will see both the hope and the hardship that marked the first year of freedom. Topics include the obstacles freed people faced – including Black Codes, labor coercion, and violence – and how these struggles shaped the national debate over Reconstruction. The story is one of resilience, determination, and the unfinished meaning of freedom.

NOTE: Civil War lectures will alternate every other month with new lectures on Reconstruction.

Reserve your spot by calling 989-633-3700 or register online below.

Click the Register button below. This button will take you to the Self-Service Portal landing page where you’ll have the opportunity to Create an Account. If you have previously attended a Learn the Portal Session and already have an account set up, you can use the URL link in your Welcome email to access the Self-Service Portal directly. Thank you for your patience as we navigate our new online registration system.