Ben Franklin's World 130 Paul Revere's Ride Through History (Doing History Rev)
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Apr 18, 2017 In this engaging discussion, historians Sarah Purcell and Jane Kamensky, along with Patrick Leahy and Christoph Ermscher, delve into the enigma of Paul Revere's ride. Purcell explores how societal needs shape collective memory, while Kamensky analyzes Copley's portrait that captures Revere as a relatable artisan. Leahy sheds light on Revere's political ties and contributions, including his role as a courier. Ermscher discusses Longfellow's poem and its lasting impact, emphasizing how vivid imagery makes history resonate today.
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Memory Versus History
- Historical memory differs from history: memory is organic, selective, and shaped by present needs.
- Sarah Purcell explains memory uses rituals, monuments, and media to bind people, not to record facts.
Why Revere Stuck In Memory
- We remember Revere because Lexington and Concord symbolize the Revolution's start and national identity.
- Sarah Purcell adds Revere's social standing and visibility helped his memory outshine other riders.
Copley’s Relatable Revere
- Copley's portrait presents Revere as a plain, self-possessed artisan rather than an elite.
- Jane Kamensky argues that this accessible image made Revere relatable for later Americans.
