Our Speaker Series is free & open to the public!

Light refreshments will be served.

The groundbreaking biography of a forgotten civil rights hero. 

Before and during the Civil War, at great personal sacrifice, Charles Sumner was the conscience of the North and the most influential politician fighting for abolition. Throughout Reconstruction, no one championed the rights of emancipated people more than he did. Through the force of his words and his will, he moved America toward the twin goals of abolitionism and equal rights, which he fought for literally until the day he died. He laid the cornerstone arguments that civil rights advocates would build upon over the next century as the country strove to achieve equality among the races.  

The Great Abolitionist is the first major biography of Charles Sumner to be published in over 50 years. Acclaimed historian, author, teacher, public speaker and communications professional Stephen Puleo relates the story of one of the most influential non-presidents in American history with evocative and accessible prose, transporting readers back to an era when our leaders exhibited true courage and authenticity in the face of unprecedented challenges. His other books include: American Treasures: The Secret Efforts to Save the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Gettysburg Address (2016) and The Caning: The Assault That Drove America to Civil War (2012). 

This series is made possible by our generous sponsor, Christine Mayer and is presented in partnership with the Wellesley Free Library.