Prelude to War

On July 4, 1776, The American Declaration of Independence was signed thus setting in motion the establishment of the United States of America. Thomas Jefferson's immortal words shine brightly, speaking to us that "All Men Are Created Equal." Yet, a mere 85 years later, the country was torn apart by an immense Civil War, that in the words of Abraham Lincoln, tested whether that country or any country so created could long endure. Considering the powerful words of Jefferson, how could the American Civil War have happened? What caused it? Could it have been prevented? Jerry Colen will speak to participants about the people, the inventions and the causes of what can only be described as America's great national tragedy.