Historian, writer, and speaker
I am a historian, author, and national public history leader. I speak about history, museums, and the ways Americans engage with the past. I’m available for keynotes, public lectures, conference programs, and other speaking engagements.
See me speak in this 2 ½ minute excerpt from a recent event.
What I speak about
George Washington, Slavery, and the Fight for American Memory
Drawing on my latest book, I discuss Americans’ centuries-long struggle to come to terms with slavery’s place in George Washington’s legacy—and the ways it has shaped today’s arguments about how we remember the founders.
Navigating Contested Histories
I also speak about the challenges of presenting complex and controversial history in an age of political pressure, censorship, and declining public trust.
These talks can be adapted for keynote addresses, museums, libraries, universities, conferences, and other audiences. Get in touch.
Appearances & Testimonials
I’ve delivered public lectures and keynotes at Clemson University, Detroit Public Library, The Filson Historical Society, George Washington University, The Henry Ford, Pennsylvania Historical Association, Rice University, Southern Festival Books, Virginia Museum of History & Culture—and many more!
“John delivered a wonderfully crafted presentation that both engaged in-person and online audience participants…If you're looking for someone to deliver a talk in a way that gets an audience to have a conversation, John is an excellent choice!” – Amy Durbin, Tudor Place
“The excitement and knowledge John brings to his presentation are remarkable, and you can feel his passion for the topics he speaks about. John not only ignited excitement in the audience, who were extremely engaged, but also in me and reminded me why I work in history.” – Heather Bruegl, The Henry Ford
Upcoming Events
September 24: Virginia Museum of History and Culture (Richmond, VA)
October 3: Decatur Book Festival (Decatur, GA)
October 8: Rice University (Houston, TX)
October 17–18: Southern Festival of Books (Nashville, TN)
October 20: W&M Washington Center (Washington, DC)
October 23: Keynote, Pennsylvania Historical Association Annual Meeting (Bethlehem, PA)
October 28: Washington & Lee University (Lexington, VA)
November 5: WashU in St. Louis (St. Louis, MO)
December 3: Washington College (Chestertown, MD)