February 22, 2026 / 2-3:30 PM EST at Stanley-Whitman House.
Explore the American Revolution through Indigenous and inclusive perspectives with Passamaquoddy author Christopher Newell.

Christopher Newell — Rethinking the American Revolution

In this talk, Newell will reexamine the American Revolution by situating it within its broader historical context, including the French and Indian War, British imperial policy, westward expansion, and conflicts over land and sovereignty.

Rather than repeating familiar myths, he explores how Indigenous nations, enslaved and free Black people, women, and colonial settlers experienced the Revolution and its aftermath—and why independence did not bring freedom or equality to all. Newell will read selected passages from his book and discuss how it was researched and written, reflecting on the complex relationships between Revolutionary leaders and Native nations and on the ways historical narratives are formed and remembered. The program will conclude with audience Q&A.

This program is part of the museum’s America250 initiative, which uses the Semiquincentennial to explore the Revolutionary era through Indigenous and inclusive perspectives.