Derek Boothby, former director of the UN’s Department of Political Affairs, considers how the determination of America’s original settlers to create a society different from the 18th century European model has fared in the long term, and offers a naturalized American’s assessment of whether modern America is all that different from anywhere else.

• “What, exactly, is ‘American exceptionalism’?” The Week, 12/21/2016
• “2017: A Momentous Year” by Derek Boothby, Bennington Banner, 12/28/2016

Statewide underwriters: The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation; Vermont Department of Libraries; National Life Group Foundation; Institute of Museum and Library Services.

See all First Wednesdays events HERE.