11/17/15 - The Deaths of Abraham Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth: Rumor, Conspiracy and Collective Memory

Lecture by Erin Dwyer 

This lecture will explore the relationship between rumors, conspiracy theories, and collective memory. Focusing on the conspiracy to assassinate President Lincoln and the subsequent death of John Wilkes Booth, this talk will delve into how conspiracy theories can function as popular history, challenging official narratives, and why certain rumors gain such a foothold in the collective imagination.

Now in it’s 12^th year, History Comes Alive is a lecture series that makes serious — and sometimes not so serious — inquiries into the past, highlighting a variety of historic experiences.

Admission is free, but reservations are requested. To reserve your space, call (248) 370-3511 or email [email protected].

This lecture series is made possible by generous contributions from:

• The Knudsen Family Foundation
• The Office of the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
• The Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
• Special thanks to founding sponsors John and Annette Carter

Presented by the College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of History.