The Lafayette National Symposium

Lafayette and the Enduring Struggle for Human Rights and Democratic Governments

This daylong symposium commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's historic farewell tour of America in 1824, highlighting his profound impact on human rights and democratic ideals. Invited by President James Monroe, Lafayette traveled across the nation he helped establish, visiting all 24 states. He received a hero’s welcome and was celebrated as a surviving veteran of the Revolutionary War.

Among the Fairfield University symposium’s distinguished lineup of experts will be New York Times bestselling author and podcaster Mike Duncan, recognized for his influential history podcast Revolutions. Duncan will join Lafayette scholars to examine the Frenchman’s impact across Europe and the Americas, including: Lloyd Kramer, PhD, history professor emeritus at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill; Robert Rhodes Crout, PhD, affiliate professor, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Charleston; Paul S. Spalding, PhD, religion professor emeritus, Illinois College; Alan Hoffman, JD, president of the American Friends of Lafayette; John Stauffer, PhD, professor of American Studies and African American Studies, Harvard; and Diane Shaw, director emerita of Special Collections & College Archives at Lafayette College.

Historian and reenactor Mark Schneider will be performing a live improvisation along with student cast members from the University's Theatre Fairfield program.

The Lafayette National Symposium will feature engaging discussions on Lafayette's advocacy for human rights and his efforts to promote democratic institutions during a pivotal era in American history. Reflecting on Lafayette's efforts to unite a young nation amidst growing discord, discussions will explore lessons applicable to contemporary challenges in democracy and human rights.

Presented with American Friends of Lafayette Symposium, the Fairfield University Office of the President, Department of History, and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Registration required

Location: Dogwood Room, Barone Campus Center

Cost: Free

Register