WBEZ 91.5 Chicago

Mark Smith, distinguished Professor of History at the University of South Carolina, discusses how the five senses shaped the Civil War.

Take a closer look at the results of the epic 2011 Chicago mayoral election. Who won, who didn’t, and what exactly does it all mean for the city? Journalist Laura Washington moderates this discussion. Our very own Steve Edwards will participate on the panel along with Esther J.

What do the Civil War and the potato have in common? Not much really—except that our renowned speaker, Andrew Smith, has written two soon-to-be published books on each subject: Starving the South: How the North Won the Civil War, and Potato: A Global History.

Drawing on research from his recently published book, Professor Andrew F. Smith examines the crucial role of food to the course and outcome of the Civil War. A book signing for Starving the South: How the North Won follows the lecture.

Charlotte Cushman (1816-1876) was the 19th century's most famous cross-dressing and woman-loving actress.

The words we use to identify ourselves can be powerful and fun, but they can also stereotype or label us.

Join Elizabeth Wright for an exclusive look at her newest book, Dear Bob, Dear Betty: Love and Marriage During the Great Depression.