Bismarck Think & Drink: History of the Shifting in Power from States to the Federal Government

Bismarck Think & Drink: History of the Shifting in Power from States to the Federal Government

Featuring Chris Cavanaugh

Sunday, March 2

3:30-4:30 pm

5th Underground (below Peacock Alley), Bismarck

This presentation explores the historical evolution of power dynamics between state and federal governments in the United States. From the early debates during the Constitutional Convention to landmark Supreme Court cases and legislative acts, we’ll trace the key moments that gradually tipped the balance of authority. By examining the shifting roles and responsibilities, attendees will gain insights into how political, economic, and social factors have shaped the federal-state relationship. The discussion will also consider the implications of this shift on contemporary governance and civic life. Perfect for anyone interested in American history, government, and constitutional law.

Think & Drink events are a great alternative to your usual coffee catch-up with friends or even an interesting date idea! We’ll start with a presentation from our speaker and then you’ll have the chance to join in on discussions at your table, sharing thoughts and ideas with others. Each ticket includes one complimentary drink.

SPEAKER BIO:

Chris Cavanaugh taught Social Studies at Plainfield High School, Indiana, for 28 years, offering courses like AP Government, Dual Credit US History, and “We the People…” with mock congressional hearings. In 2018 he moved to North Dakota and now teaches Global Studies and AP US History at Bismarck High School. Chris earned a BA in Journalism from Indiana University, an MA in History from Butler University, and is a James Madison Memorial Senior Fellow. Awards include Indiana Teacher of the Year Finalist (2008) and American Civic Educator Award (2006). He’s also mentored at “We the People” institutes nationwide and participated in various professional programs.

HND VALUE STATEMENT:

Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program, do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or Humanities North Dakota. However, in an increasingly polarized world, we at Humanities North Dakota believe that being open-minded is necessary to thinking critically and rationally. Therefore, our programs and classes reflect our own open-mindedness in the inquiry, seeking, and acquiring of scholars to speak at our events and teach classes for our Public University. To that end, we encourage our participants to join us in stepping outside our comfort zones and considering other perspectives and ideas by being open-minded while attending HND events featuring scholars who hold a variety of opinions, some being opposite of our own held beliefs.

Humanities North Dakota classes and events are funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities