George Washington and Abraham Lincoln are often remembered as the two greatest American Statesmen. But what makes one statesman, as opposed to a politician? Must one be a politician to be a statesman? To answer these questions, we will consider Washington, Lincoln, and other possible examples of statesmanship in the United States between 1776 and 1877. We will also consider whether statesmanship, as originally understood, is the same as the more modern understanding of leadership.

This program will be conducted as a Socratic discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with Dr. Christopher Burkett facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. Teachers will receive a Letter of
Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar