Course: General George C. Marshall: The Last Great American? (OSH-GENMARSH)

This in-depth course offers a comprehensive exploration of the life, leadership, and legacy of General George C. Marshall, one of the most consequential figures of the 20th century. From his early military career through his pivotal roles as Army Chief of Staff during World War II, Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, and President of the Red Cross, Marshall helped shape the modern world through strategic brilliance and moral clarity. Students will critically examine his leadership style, decision-making during times of global crisis, and foundational role in creating the Marshall Plan, a bold initiative that rebuilt war-torn Europe and laid the groundwork for long-term peace and prosperity.

The course will also delve into Marshall's postwar diplomatic efforts, including his impact on the formation of NATO and the U.S. approach to Cold War geopolitics. Special attention will be given to Marshall's personal life, values, and character through analysis of his private letters, speeches, photographs, personal possessions, and biographical accounts. Was he, as some suggest, the 'last great American,' a model of public service, humility, and principled leadership? Students will be invited to assess Marshall's legacy and what it reveals about leadership, ethics, and American identity.

Session: OSH126.GENMARSH (SOLD OUT! Waitlist available)

Schedule:

Mondays, 12/8 & 12/15

Times:

01:00pm - 02:30pm

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Instructors

Name

Additional Resources

Cody Youngblood

Cody Youngblood
Osher Instructor

Biography: Architectural Historian and Curator, Patrick Henry's 'Red Hill', Cody holds a B.A. in Historic Preservation and Museum Studies from the University of Mary Washington and an M.A. in the Conservation of Historic Buildings from the University of York. Previously, he served as Museum Director of George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor where he researched and implemented the refurnishing of the house museum to accurately represent General Marshall's residency. Cody also contributed to the reinterpretation of historic interiors at Oatlands Historic House & Gardens in Leesburg, Virginia and the Rising Sun Tavern in Fredericksburg, Virginia. At Red Hill, Cody stewards the largest collection of Patrick Henry artifacts in the world and oversees the preservation of the site's historic built environment. He is currently writing his first biographical book on the life of Patrick Henry's great granddaughter, Lucy Gray Henry.

Facility Detail

TBD - UR Campus

490 Westhampton Way

Richmond, VA 23173