In the News: London and the Dawn of Democracy PDF Print E-mail


Winston House Alumni Seminars

Thursday October 16, 2008

4-6 pm


London
and the Dawn of Democracy


Many of the principles, practices, and institutional arrangements we think of as defining "democracy" today were formulated, contested, and first implemented in the context of the English Civil War in the 17th century. At the very center of these developments was the city of London. London was the stronghold and hotbed of democratic sympathies: here the causes of representative democracy, legislative sovereignty, political equality, limited government, and due process of law were tried and tested. The experiment cost King Charles his head, changed forever the role of monarchy in modern societies, and set into motion an ideal of popular rule the legacy of which we still enjoy today.


These struggles also changed London itself. The greatness of London, the hustle and bustle of commerce, the rich diversity and openness of the city, the meaning of its historical sites and structures: all these and more were profoundly shaped by the city's critical role at the dawn of democracy.


In this presentation, Professor Stephen Leonard offers us a way to see London in a way different from the usual tourist’s fare: as the place where modern democracy began. A slide-show tour and take-home visitors guide to “London and Liberty” let you personally experience this interesting moment of this great city’s history.

Professor Leonard’s talk will be followed by a mix-and-mingle reception for alumni and current Honors students. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from a Carolina expert and catch up with the doings of some of Carolina’s best undergraduates!


The talk and reception are free and open to Carolina alumni; refreshments will be served.

 
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