Instructor: John McCardell

Biography: JOHN MCCARDELL is President Emeritus of Sewanee and former President of Middlebury College. A historian of the American South, he authored The Idea of a Southern Nation, which won the Allan Nivens award and has published widely.

Classes by this instructor

(HIS230) THE SEVEN YEARS' WAR - BEGINNING OF AMERICAN HISTORY

The Seven Years' War answered a fundamental question: "Shall France remain a North American power or not?" Its outcome marked the beginning of American history. This presentation will explore Francis Parkman's thesis and, through his lens, examine the war's broader significance.
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Beaufort campus
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Live on Zoom

(HIS234) THE BUILD UP TO THE SEVEN YEARS' WAR

This course will examine the role of the American colonies as extensions of European conflicts during the 16th century.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Beaufort campus
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Live on Zoom

(HIS240) THE COMING OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 1760-1776

This is an OLLI Digital Library recording and is available to view until May31, 2026.

This class explores the complex causes and escalating tensions that led to the American colonies' break from Britain, culminating in the Declaration of Independence.
Thursday, January 1, 2026, OLLI Digital Library