Bringing Federal History to the Public During America’s 250th Anniversary

Anniversaries offer an opportunity to reflect on the past and consider what the future might bring. With the semiquintessential of the United States, federal historians and allied professionals are uniquely positioned to offer insights, reflections, analysis and understanding, as well as to consider the current context of its celebration, and what issues future federal historians may face.

Federal history practitioners will be celebrating the 250th anniversary through myriad projects and programs. The raised profile of this event brings with it an opportunity for a fresh framework on public history, to highlight the relevance and importance of federal history, and for outreach and deeper connection to a wide range of audiences. How are practitioners bringing federal history to the public now? What research and resources on federal history have risen to attention in light of  the 250th anniversary?

SHFG invites federal history practitioners from all specialties, including but not limited to scholars, public historians, educators, museum professionals, archivists, and communications professionals, to submit presentations for the annual meeting. Suggested topics may include creatively and engagingly framed narratives and innovative public facing delivery, projects working toward transparency and availability of historical documentation and data,  and development of creative and relevant connections between the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the subsequent development of the federal government and its workforce throughout the history of the United States. 

The Program Committee invites proposals for the following formats and encourages non-traditional panel formats: 

ROUNDTABLE: Includes short presentations by panelists, followed by discussion and feedback from panelists and from the audience. 3-6 participants. 

STRUCTURED CONVERSATION: Facilitated, participant-driven discussions designed to prioritize audience dialogue and contain little or no formal presentations. 3-6 participants. 

LIGHTNING ROUNDS: Participants make short presentations–no more than 5 minutes each–to summarize their research or projects. Up to 15 participants. 

WORKSHOP: A workshop provides concrete practical tools and lessons for a smaller group of attendees on a specific subject or skill. Organizers submit proposals, and after acceptance attendees can register for the workshop. 15-30 participants. 

TRADITIONAL PANEL: At least three presenters, a chair, and a commentator. 3-6 participants. 

INDIVIDUAL PAPERS: While individual proposals are welcome, individual presentations will be combined with similar proposals to make a full session. The Program Committee will consider proposals for entire sessions before reviewing individual papers.

OTHER: Proposals for additional formats not described above are welcome. 

Submission Process:

All proposals should include a title and session abstract (200-300 words), brief abstracts of each participant (200-300 words), and biographical paragraphs and contact information for each participant. Individual paper proposals should include a brief abstract (200-300 words), a brief biographical paragraph for the presenter, and contact information.

All proposals should be submitted using this Google form.

Please direct any questions to the Program Committee at: shfg.primary@gmail.com