Master the Possibilities showcases visiting speakers

Special to the “Ocala Gazette”

In April, Master the Possibilities will bring some of the nation’s leading historians, journalists and scholars directly to you, presenting remote lectures that illuminate pivotal moments in American history for our Exploring 250 Years of America curriculum.

From the making of an iconic president to the untold stories of Native Americans in the early United States, these events offer fresh insights, rare documents and expert perspectives that deepen understanding and spark curiosity.

On April 2, from 1 to 2 p.m., historian and author Paul Sparrow, former director of the FDR Presidential Library, will be covering the “Awakening the Spirit of America: FDR’s War of Words with Charles Lindbergh and the Battle to Save Democracy.” Sparrow will examine how Roosevelt’s rhetoric, media strategy and political acumen overcame isolationism and positioned the U.S. as a global leader during World War II.

Rescheduled to April 9, from 3 to 4:15 p.m., this visiting speaker event features Fredrik Logevall, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and Harvard University professor, presenting “JFK: The Making of a Leader.” Drawing on previously unseen materials, including Oval Office tapes, interviews with Jackie Kennedy and declassified CIA documents, Logevall explores Kennedy’s childhood, Harvard education and World War II experiences, offering fresh insights into the influences that shaped his leadership.

Don’t miss expert Colin Calloway on April 15, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., when he will bring to life a discussion on Native Americans and the New Nation, restoring Native Americans to their central role in the Revolution, George Washington’s presidency and the early development of the United States.

On April 23, from 10 to 11 a.m., investigative journalist Craig Whitlock, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller “The Afghanistan Papers,” will be giving a lecture on “At War with the Truth: How U.S. Officials Misled the Public About the War in Afghanistan.” In this presentation, Whitlock will reveal the hidden truths behind America’s longest war and examine how, in his opinion, military strategy lost direction after 2001. He will touch on the gap between official messaging and on-the-ground realities.

Last but not least in the lineup of visiting speakers will be Julia Ott, associate professor of history at The New School, who will speak about “Rethinking the Great Crash of 1929” on April 30, from 1 to 2 p.m. Ott will explore how 1920s financial speculation, World War I bond drives and societal promises of prosperity shaped the economy, providing a fresh understanding of one of the most pivotal financial events in U.S. history.

All of these visiting speaker events will be held in Live Oak Hall. The cost for each event is $8 for members and $13 for the general public.

For more information or to register, visit masterthepossibilities.org. Registration also is available by calling the Master the Possibilities main office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, at (352) 861-9751.