Topics of study include the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, Watergate, and other aspects of American politics and culture in the last half of the 20th century. Focusing on the Muskie collection and the holdings of Ladd Library at Bates, students have an opportunity to work with primary and secondary sources and work closely with the program's faculty to develop their research, analytical and writing skills. The Archives organizes other programs on a variety of subjects. Among the presenters at the Muskie Environmental Lecture have been Jay Hare of the National Wildlife Federation, activist Helen Caldicott, and writer Bill McKibbon. Other lecturers have included Derek Bell, Leon G. Billings, Andrea Dvorkin, Patricia Ireland, Randall Kennedy, and Robert Putnam.
Every effort is made to ensure that a variety of perspectives is presented on the issues.
All programs are open to the public. President Jimmy Carter was the guest speaker and received a doctor of laws degree. All Rights Reserved.