Party politics in the United States dates back to the nation's earliest days. George Washington himself warned that political parties could create conflicting loyalties that might tear the country apart. This nearly became reality during the Civil War, when partisan strife resulted in America's bloodiest conflict. Author and veteran journalist Bill Thomas will explore the evolution of U.S. political parties, tracing their impact on the country’s history. Through this survey, he will highlight how these parties have shaped and reshaped American society, continuing to influence the political landscape we navigate today. Join us for an insightful look into the forces that have defined our political system.  This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Bill Thomas is a veteran journalist and author who has covered the White House and Capitol Hill for over 25 years, with work appearing in The Baltimore Sun, The Hill, Vanity Fair, and The New York Times Magazine. A former writer and editor with The Economist Group, his books include Lawyers and Thieves and Capital Confidential, which inspired the Off-Broadway musical The Prez.