Written Then, Spoken Now: Remaking the Republic

The 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States invites us to reflect on what it means to be an American citizen. Grounded in the promises of the Declaration of Independence, each generation has added new depth to that conversation, expanding and reaffirming the nation’s founding ideals. In his book, Remaking the Republic: Black Politics and the Creation of American Citizenship, historian Dr. Christopher Bonner explores how free African Americans in the nineteenth-century gave powerful meaning to citizenship through advocacy and action. 

In this chapter of Written Then, Spoken Now, Ford’s Theatre will be in conversation with Dr. Christopher Bonner, Chess Jakobs, dramaturg and Dr. Quincy Mills, Director of the Frederick Douglass Center for Leadership Through the Humanities on February 6, 2026. Blended with their conversation, we will feature excerpts of the book, historical letters and newspapers read aloud by actors. The program will be followed by a book signing. 

Experience the convergence of history and theatre, as we bring to life stories of the integral role of free Black Americans in the making of American citizenship.