Thompson discusses political divide in Connect webcast series

The nation's political divide goes back much further than most people realize.

In a new webcast from Colonial Williamsburg's Connect series, Jennifer L. Thompson, associate professor of political science in the Virginia Commonwealth University College of Humanities and Sciences, provides current political analysis on the national divide. Colonial Williamsburg historian Bill Sullivan provides historical context.

“American Ideas: The Political Divide” looks at political parties, partisanship and the role of national government historically and their application in modern issues, such as the debt ceiling, economic policy, balancing private wealth with common wealth and American influence worldwide.

The program airs Thursday, Oct. 17, at noon at http://connect.history.org/webcast/american-ideas-political-divide.

The American Ideas programs are part of a series of Colonial Williamsburg live webcasts debating our nation’s most basic values and how they shape our republic and are one of many programs that support Colonial Williamsburg’s initiatives as a center for history and citizenship.

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