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Pilgrim Fathers to Founding Fathers

Dr Daniel J Boorstin explores the originality of the American nationality in his lecture, 'Pilgrim Fathers to Founding Fathers'.

The distinguished Professor of American history and the twelfth Librarian of Congress Dr Daniel J. Boorstin gives the second Reith lecture from his series entitled 'America and the World Experience'.

In 'Pilgrim Fathers to Founding Fathers', Dr Boorstin explores the unique creation of the United States of America, and explains why America was different in its approach to constitutional and institutional formation.

Taking us back to the 18th century he argues that the Pilgrim Fathers saw that nation-building was not the monopoly of the gods or past ancestors. This de-mystification of the origin of nations allowed for new and innovative powers to create the land that they wanted. Dr Boorstin explores the visible beginning of the new nation.

30 minutes

Broadcast

  • Wed 19 Nov 1975 09:00

New to the Reith Lectures? Here鈥檚 where to start

Four lectures recommended by the series producer.

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