Lecture: The Pursuit of Happiness

The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America

Presented by Jeffrey Rosen

What did “the pursuit of happiness” mean to our nation’s founders and how did that famous phrase become the foundation of our democracy?

The Declaration of Independence identifies “the pursuit of happiness” as one of our unalienable rights, along with life and liberty. In his new book, National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen profiles six of the most influential founders—Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton—to show what pursuing happiness meant in their lives.

Join us as Rosen not only elucidates the meaning of the Declaration’s famous phrase, but also takes us on a revelatory journey into the minds of the Founders, providing a deep, rich and fresh understanding of the foundation of our democracy.

This lecture will take place in-person AND via Zoom.

TICKETS:

Museum Members: FREE

Public Ticket: $10

Zoom only: FREE

Register