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Reforming Philadelphia, 1682–2022

December 11, 2023 @ 6:30 pm - December 19, 2023 @ 7:30 pm

Learn about the evolution of Philadelphia’s government over nearly 350 years.

Over the course of its nearly 350 year history, Philadelphia’s government has undergone significant change. Join us for an exploration of this history with political scientist Richardson Dilworth as he unravels the evolution of the city’s government.

Discover the stories of reformers who reshaped Philadelphia’s purpose and governance, challenging the established “corrupt machine” and vying for control through elections. Dive into pivotal moments, from the 1885 city charter overhaul to the emergence of the Republican machine and the city’s shift to a Democratic stronghold in the 1950s, marked by profound racial transitions.

Focusing on the 20th and 21st centuries, Dilworth delves into the terms of influential mayors like Rizzo, Goode, Rendell, Street, Nutter, and Kenney. Uncover the intricate dance of power and resistance, as Philadelphia’s political history and reform cycles offer a compelling framework applicable to cities nationwide.

Dilworth will also discuss the importance of HSP’s collection to his research process.

This lecture directly follows HSP’s 2023 Annual Meeting. HSP members should register for both the meeting and lecture here.

Speaker’s Bio:

Richardson Dilworth is a professor of politics and head of the Department of Politics at Drexel University. Dilworth’s research and teaching focuses on American urban political development, urban environmental policy, and community economic development. He is the author of several books, including Reforming Philadelphia, 1682⁠–⁠2022, the editor-in-chief of the Oxford Bibliographies in Urban Studies, and the editor or coeditor of nine books.

The Historical Society of Pennsylvania, founded in 1824, is one of the nation’s largest archives of historical documents. We are proud to serve as Philadelphia’s Library of American History, with over 21 million manuscripts, books, and graphic images encompassing centuries of US history. Through educator workshops, research opportunities, public programs, and lectures throughout the year, we strive to make history relevant and exhilarating to all. For more information, visit hsp.org.

Details

Start:
December 11, 2023 @ 6:30 pm
End:
December 19, 2023 @ 7:30 pm
Website:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reforming-philadelphia-16822022-tickets-755667179877