Semester Opening Decision 2024: US Elections in Historical Perspective

In many regards, this election season has felt like a rerun with hateful anti-immigrant rhetoric, the rigged election myth, and flat-out lies emanating from the Right. Yet surprises—from a last-minute candidate switch and an assassination attempt—have also been plentiful. Historians Nell Irvin Painter (Princeton) and Nina Mackert (Leipzig/Erfurt) will provide both historical background and contemporary analysis on the electoral contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Join us for the History Department's semester opening and a lively debate of our tumultuous present with deep historical insights.

There will be snacks!

And drinks!

Moderation: Jürgen Martschukat and Alexander Obermueller