Talk with Manisha Sinha: Lafayette as an Antislavery Icon at New London Maritime

As we continue celebrating the bicentennial of Lafayette’s 1824-1825 tour of the United States, the New London Maritime Society welcomes renowned historian Dr. Manisha Sinha to the Custom House. Dr. Sinha will present a talk entitled ‘Lafayette in the Abolitionist Imagination.’ A reception to meet Dr. Sinha begins at 6:30 PM, with the talk starting at 7:00. Ticket prices range from $25 – students, $30 – NLMS members, to $35 – general admission. Space is limited, so please register online in advance at https://sinhalafayette.bpt.me/.

Lafayette, a staunch abolitionist and champion of Liberty, Equality, and Freedom, was warmly welcomed by Americans in all 24 states upon his return in 1824. He stopped in New London, Connecticut, on August 22, 1824. As the last surviving general of the American Revolution, his visit was a momentous occasion.

Dr. Sinha’s talk will delve into Lafayette’s role not only as a revolutionary ‘hero of two worlds’ but also as an antislavery icon for both black and white abolitionists in the United States. It will examine how abolitionists and African Americans received Lafayette during his triumphant tour and how the issue of slavery challenged revolutionary republicans. The discussion will also address how abolitionists leveraged this contradiction to advocate for emancipation.

In light of the ongoing election season, Dr. Sinha will also offer insights on the fragility of democratic republics and draw parallels between American and French republicanism.

A little-known fact: Dr. Sinha will be the first speaker at the museum to have also appeared on ‘The Daily Show’ with Jon Stewart. Please join us on October 29!

For more information

Tuesday, October 29, reception at 6:30, presentation at 7 PM