The familiar elements were there; political operatives, surrogates, partisan media, divided populace, high ideals and low behavior, and serious economic and national security issues. When Thomas Jefferson, Democratic-Republican, squared off against John Adams, Federalist, the gloves were off, and this was as raw and dirty as our politics get. Aaron Burr set about capturing New York for the Democratic-Republicans, while Adams was the first to hit the campaign trail. Each side believed the other was a traitor. The base smeared one another in newspapers, cartoons, pamphlets, and widely circulated letters. Learn how our rough-and-tumble presidential elections began and the deep roots of our sometimes dysfunctional, but always enduring, search for liberty.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.