About this Webinar

In an increasingly complex landscape and on the eve of the U.S. 250th anniversary, this webinar will explore new research about a defining “national narrative” for America. The notion of a shared national story—one that promotes a common sense of purpose, origins, and belonging—has long been contested in American history. A new report from the Nationhood Lab at Salve Regina University, “The Story of America: A rebooted civic national narrative for the United States,” leverages a year of research to address this debate. Based on its findings, the report offers a unifying national narrative—including core scripts and suggested language—rooted in the values of the Declaration of Independence and designed for varied audiences. In this webinar, Nationhood Lab Director Colin Woodard, in conversation with AASLH’s Vice President of Research and Engagement, John Marks, will highlight the report’s context and key findings as attendees gain a deeper understanding the history of America’s competing national narratives, why this debate matters today, and strategies for effectively communicating about our nation’s past, present, and future as 2026 fast approaches.

Details

DATE: July 17, 2025

TIME: 3:00-4:15 pm EASTERN (Remember to adjust for your time zone)

COST: $25 - Members/$45 - Non-members

ACCESS: You will be provided with instructions on how to access the live event upon registration.

Recording and Captioning

We will record this event. Captioning is provided for the live event.

Learning Outcomes

During this webinar, participants will learn about:

• The concept of a “national narrative,” why it matters, and the role it has played in U.S. history
• Why a new national narrative is important in America today, especially in relation to the Semiquincentennial
• Key findings from the Nationhood Lab’s latest research on a new national narrative for America, including core scripts and suggested language designed for varied audiences
• Strategies for effectively communicating about our nation’s past, present, and future as 2026 approaches

How to Register

Click here for instructions on how to register yourself or another user for this event. 

How to Register for this Event

Cancellation/Refunds for onsite workshops must be submitted in writing via email to learn@aaslh.org or mail to 2021 21st Ave S., Suite 320 Nashville, TN 37212. Cancellations made prior to the early-bird registration deadline date will receive a full refund. Cancellations made between the early-bird deadline date and eight days prior to the workshop will be subject to a $55 processing/materials charge. No refunds will be given within seven days of the workshop date. AASLH is not responsible for cancellations that were mailed or emailed but never received.

Cancellations/Refunds for online professional development (webinars and online courses) must be submitted in writing via email to learn@aaslh.org or mail to 2021 21st Ave S., Suite 320 Nashville, TN 37212. Cancellations made prior to the start date for the online course or the day of the webinar will be given a full refund. No refund will be given after the start date for the online course or on/after the day of the webinar. Registrants may transfer their registration to another person. Registrations cannot be transferred between courses or course sessions. AASLH is not responsible for cancellations that were mailed or emailed but never received.

If you have any questions, please contact AASLH Professional Development staff at learn@aaslh.org or 615-320-3203.