The Ticonderoga Historical Society will present a free public program on Friday, September 25 at 6 p.m. at the Hancock House, 6 Moses Circle, Ticonderoga. “Fake News and Fisticuffs – Nothing New in American Politics” will highlight the history of fake news and violent discord, including physical attacks in the Congress, and how neither is unique to today’s political climate.
“We felt this was a particularly timely topic, given the upcoming elections,” said THS Managing Director Diane O’Connor. “It is important to note that it is not a new phenomenon. Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both complained about fake news in the early 1800s. In 1856, during a slavery-related debate in the Senate, a Massachusetts Republican, Charles Sumner, was beaten with a cane wielded by a Democrat from South Carolina. Sumner was quite seriously injured; and this was not an isolated incident, by any means.”
The program will be presented jointly by O’Connor and her husband Brian O’Connor, Library Director for North Country Community College. “We each bring a different perspective, from both a rhetorical and historical viewpoint,” she said. “We also plan to provide the audience with tips on how to recognize fake news.”
The program will be held outdoors and is cancelled in the event of rain. Program attendance will be limited to 45 and reservations are required. Social distancing guidelines will be enforced and masks are required. Attendees should bring their own lawn chairs. Reservations may be made by calling the Hancock House at 518-585-7868 or via e-mail to: tihistory@bridgepoint1.com.
Leave a Reply