Revisiting the 1976 American Bicentennial: 'It was a Really Big Deal!'
As the United States of America approaches its 250th year of liberty and independence, we have the opportunity to look back on many events, large and small, that made us who we are. One landmark in particular deserves a look this year: The American Bicentennial, an event that spanned several years of the early 1970s, occurring just as we were recovering from the national shocks of Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. Americans were suffering from runaway inflation, and in the northwestern Pennsylvania region, the early collapse of the industries that were the backbone of our economy were becoming more evident. Yet, the Bicentennial served as a salve. It provided events that promoted unity and patriotism. It educated and entertained. It was a time of reflection, celebration and joy. It was everywhere in our lives in a way almost unimaginable today – and deserves our looking back at it.
This event is part of the JES's USA 250 Event Series.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Monday, Feburary 16, 7-8:30PM
Admission: FREE
*If you do NOT receive a letter from info@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!
Richard Jay Arthur, M.A., is a native of Pittsburgh. A 23-year veteran Army
officer, he has a lifelong interest in history with particular focus on the American
Colonial period. He has given talks on the Founding Fathers and the Continental
Army and lectured on the role of Pennsylvanians on the planning and actions of
D-Day, including stories based on interviews with participants. A website features
stories from his Butler County youth at www.butlercountyboyhood.com. He earned his
bachelor’s degree from Allegheny College, and his master’s from George Washington
University. He and his wife, Mary Lou, live in rural Erie County, where they operate
Winter’s End, an environment that supports bees and butterflies.
