June 11 | 6:30pm | 213 Water Street | Free
Less than a month before America marks its 250th anniversary, join historian Robert G. Parkinson for a fresh look at the important document that changed the course of history. While the Declaration of Independence is remembered for iconic phrases such as “all men are created equal” and “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” its most revealing sections may be the grievances—the detailed charges against King George III that explain why the colonies chose revolution.
Drawing on his new book, Tyrants and Rogues: Understanding the Declaration of Independence, Parkinson will explore the conflicts, fears, and political struggles that shaped the Declaration. From attacks on colonial legislatures and courts to the use of military force against civilians, the grievances reveal what Revolutionary leaders believed threatened their rights, liberties, and way of life.
By uncovering the people, events, and controversies behind these grievances, Parkinson offers a richer understanding of the American Revolution and a new perspective on why the Declaration resonated so powerfully in 1776—and why issues that most alarmed colonists in 1776 remain relevant today.
This special event celebrates both the publication of Tyrants and Rogues, released on June 9, and the Seaport Museum’s landmark exhibition, The Promise of Liberty: Words That Shaped a Nation. On view in the exhibition is a remarkably rare 1776 broadside of the Declaration of Independence, issues of which were printed for rapid distribution and often read aloud in town squares to rally support for the revolutionary cause.
Following the presentation, Parkinson will open the floor for audience questions. What exactly is a grievance? Why were there 27 of them? Why was the Declaration written when it was? Whether you’re a lifelong history enthusiast or simply curious about America’s founding document, this is your chance to ask the questions you’ve always wondered about and gain new insight into the Declaration on the eve of its 250th anniversary.
Preregistration is encouraged. Walkups will be accommodated as possible. Before the program, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, attendees are invited to explore The Promise of Liberty and view this extraordinary document alongside other foundational treasures that shaped the nation. Exhibition admission is included with your free event ticket.
About the Speaker
Robert Parkinson is associate professor of history at Binghamton University. He is the author of Thirteen Clocks: How Race United the Colonies and Made the Declaration of Independence (2021) and The Common Cause: Creating Race and Nation in the American Revolution (2016), which won the OAH’s James Rawley prize for the best book on US race relations in 2017. His most recent book, The Heart of American Darkness (2024), is a microhistory about how the grisly murder of nine Natives on a tributary of the Ohio River in 1774 exerted a surprisingly powerful influence in the political and rhetorical life of the early American republic. Parkinson earned his PhD at the University of Virginia and has held fellowships at the Omohundro Institute of Early American History & Culture and the C.V. Starr for the Study for the American Experience.
Acknowledgements
The Promise of Liberty: Words That Shaped a Nation and accompanying events are organized in cooperation with Sail4th 250 and made possible through the generous support of Citadel founder and CEO Kenneth C. Griffin and his civic engagement initiative Griffin Catalyst.
Additional support for this exhibition and Sail4th 250 is provided by Bulova and Jefferson’s Bourbon.
Plan Your Visit
We look forward to welcoming you! Before your visit, please review the Visitor Guide and Frequently Asked Questions. You’ll find helpful information on ticketing and discounts, planning a family visit, directions and accessibility at each of our historic sites, the visitor code of conduct, what is and isn’t permitted across the Museum campus, tips for using technology during your visit, and more.
Ready for more?
Head over to our Programs and Events page to see what else is happening at the Museum. Sign up for an upcoming talk, learn more about visiting Wavertree, or explore our virtual offerings.