Iconic Conversations: Peter Kastor, St. Louis’ American Revolution

Join us each month for a thought-provoking speaker series that brings St. Louis history to life. Gateway Arch National Park and Jefferson National Parks Association are proud to host compelling talks by local authors and other knowledgeable guests who will explore a variety of topics relevant to the St. Louis region. You might learn about our city’s early beginnings, its architecture, our prominent leaders, the rise of the Gateway Arch, our civil rights struggles, and the best things to do around town. Book discussions will be followed by an author signing opportunity. 

All programs are free and no reservations are needed. They will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of the month in the rotunda of the historic Old Courthouse (11 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102). The building is fully accessible, and a sign language interpreter will be on hand for each presentation. 

When you think of the American Revolutionary War, the city of St. Louis probably doesn’t come to mind. Yet our small village was the site of the westernmost battle fought in the war, one that helped shape the destiny of our young nation. The 1780 Battle of Ft. San Carlos crushed Britain’s plans to take over St. Louis, thus spoiling its attempt to take control of the Mississippi River during the war.

Peter Kastor will explore this fascinating chapter from our city’s past. As a history professor at Washington University, he focuses on the half-century following American independence. He is also a scholar on the American Presidency.