Indivisible: Daniel Webster and the birth of American nationalism

As we mark the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, this presentation looks back to a time when America was still becoming itself. New Hampshire native Daniel Webster argued that the Constitution—not race or religion—defines who belongs as an American. Professor Joel Richard Paul explores how this inclusive vision shaped our national identity and why it still matters today. Paul is the Alfred and Hanna Fromm Emeritus Professor at UC Law San Francisco and the author of Indivisible: Daniel Webster and the Birth of American Nationalism (Penguin). Books may be purchased in advance online or at your local bookseller. A book signing will follow.

Presented by Joel Richard Paul.

This event is made possible by New Hampshire Humanities, in partnership with NHPBS, with additional support provided by Cogswell Benevolent Trust. By the People: Conversations Beyond 250 is a series of community driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.