Dartmouth Celebrates America at 250
Dartmouth is marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence during the 2025-26 academic year with a series of events, exhibits, and programs looking back to history and forward to the future. The Rockefeller Center and Dartmouth Dialogues have launched a lecture series, Law and Democracy: The United States at 250, which is bringing policy leaders, legal scholars, and analysts from across the political spectrum to campus. The Hood Museum of Art is also presenting a slate of exhibitions that address significant moments and themes in American art and culture.
On July 4, 1776, Dartmouth was on the frontier and students were on edge.
Law and Democracy Highlights
Annette Gordon-Reed, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, says the country benefits from expanded voices.
Laurie Santos says prioritizing money and status is often counterproductive.
Heather Gerken and Ezra Klein believe voters will have their say.
The former transportation secretary speaks at Dartmouth’s “Law and Democracy” series.
Richard Norton Smith says the job has “radically changed” over the decades.
The Kentucky Republican weighs in on tariffs and the shutdown.
Building an Academic Art Collection in America
Through February 27, 2027
December 13, 2025–November 7, 2026
History, Myth, and Propaganda
Through August 8, 2026
Abstraction in the United States
Through March 20, 2027
Slavery and Its Afterlives
December 20, 2025–July 11, 2026
January 10–July 25, 2026
Artistic Constructions of America, 1790–1940
February 7–August 29, 2026
Work in the United States
July 25–November 7, 2026
Asian American Art in Conversation
August 22–November 28, 2026
Past Events
The former Chicago mayor encourages students to pursue public service.
The courts are the only institutions upholding norms, say former Bush and Obama lawyers.
Legal scholar Maggie Blackhawk outlines the history of federal Indian law.
They say democracy’s future requires resolve as legal norms are trampled.
The Kentucky Democrat urges politicians to listen closely to everyday concerns.
The conversation was moderated by Russell Muirhead, Robert Clements Professor of Democracy and Politics and Co-Director, Political Economy Project.
The California Democrat also calls for a vote on the war with Iran.
Four top journalists talk about adapting to constant changes in the media industry.
David French and Sarah Isgur discuss the Supreme Court, law, and American democracy.
The New Hampshire lawmaker tells students “all is not lost” despite turmoil.
Compromise is not “a dirty word,” says the former Republican governor of Maryland.
The former ambassador and Marine combat officer warns of tech competition with China.
The former governor of Pennsylvania also says find common ground.
Kathleen Kingsbury participates in Dartmouth’s Law and Democracy Series.