Montesquieu: The French Roots of the American Constitution with French Historian Isabelle Slotine

Tuesday, October 22, 2024 From 6:00 PM To 7:30 PM Add to Calendar 2024-10-22 18:00:00 2024-10-22 19:30:00 Montesquieu: The French Roots of the American Constitution with French Historian Isabelle Slotine Join us for an exploration into the French roots of the American Constitution, as Isabelle Slotine, who has extensively researched Montesquieu's works, uncovers how his ideas traveled across the Atlantic and influenced the Founding Fathers. This event will be held in English. The French Library, 53 Marlborough St, Boston, Massachusetts, United States America/New_York

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As we approach one of the most important election cycles in a generation, don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the transatlantic connections that helped define the foundation of American democracy.

Join us for an exploration into the French roots of the American Constitution, as Isabelle Slotine, who has extensively researched Montesquieu's works, uncovers how his ideas traveled across the Atlantic and influenced the Founding Fathers. In this engaging talk, Isabelle Slotine will highlight Montesquieu’s seminal work, L’Esprit des Lois, and explain how it found its way into Benjamin Franklin’s Library in Philadelphia, inspiring key figures like James Madison to shape the U.S. Constitution.

With her personal ties to the Bordeaux region and her extensive knowledge of its history, Slotine will also provide a historical perspective on France and Europe during the time Montesquieu was writing, guiding us through the intellectual and political context that shaped his groundbreaking ideas on governance and democracy.

To conclude the evening, attendees will be treated to a tasting of wines from Bordeaux, sourced from the vineyards that once belonged to Montesquieu near the Château de La Brède, his family estate. This will make the evening an immersive and enriching experience.

In person event in English

October 22nd

$25/$35

About Isabelle Slotine

Former culture journalist in Paris, Isabelle Slotine graduated from Sciences-Po and has master's degrees in French Law and French History. She is a class 2022 Associate guide at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

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