There is more to Kentucky than just fast horses and good bourbon – although, quite frankly, a healthy epicurean doesn’t really need much more than that. It is an unfortunate fact that much of our fair and famously Blue-grassed state is overshadowed by sad images of poverty and poor education in the eyes of our neighbors. But Kentucky’s historical contributions are a vibrant and potent mixture of culture, innovation and progress. Long before our whiskey changed the world, Kentucky was moving and shaking in the young republic. Historian James A. Ramage will bring this story to light this afternoon as he shares his book, Kentucky Rising: Democracy Slavery and Culture from the Early Republic to the Civil War at The Filson Historical Society.
Using a combination of both primary and secondary sources, Kentucky Rising reconstructs a picture of our state as an early leader in politics, science and education. Once regarded by the nation as a region filled with innovation and limitless possibilities for the future (I think our tourism industry calls this “unbridled spirit”, now), Ramage explores the sixty crucial years before the Civil War with a new and discerning voice for Kentucky. Kentucky Rising blends a historical synthesis of the progressive attitude of our Bluegrass forefathers with some of the nation’s more tender issues, including slavery, race and war.
James A. Ramage is currently the Regents Professor of History at Northern Kentucky University. The author of several other historical volumes, titles in Ramage’s repertoire include John Wesley Hunt: Pioneer Merchant, Manufacturer and Financier and Rebel Raider: The Life of General John Hunt Morgan. Ramage is also the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his contributions to teaching and history, including the 2003 Flame Award, as well as 2003 Acorn Award from Kentucky Advocates for Higher Education.
Sound smart enough for you? Take your lunch break with a man who knows his stuff and knows our state; explore the rich culture of the Bluegrass today at noon – and maybe raise a bourbon toast after work.
The Filson Historical Society is located at 1310 S. Third Street
For more information, visit The Filson’s website or call (502)635-5083
Image: Courtesy of Louisville Free Public Library website www.lfpl.org
