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Florida Reflections: with Dr. Roger Smith

The 14th Colony: The American Revolution's Best Kept Secret

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale- As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of independence, this statewide series invites audiences to look beyond familiar narratives and reconsider Florida’s place in the American story. Led by historians, scholars, artists, and cultural practitioners, the programs explore overlooked Revolutionary histories, the development of democracy in Florida, Indigenous knowledge, and the cultural traditions that carry memory across generations. From Florida’s surprising role in the American Revolution to reflections on civic responsibility and cultural expression today, the series connects past and present in thoughtful and compelling ways. Together, these programs encourage reflection on democracy, identity, and participation at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.

The 14th Colony: The American Revolution's Best Kept Secret Historian and author Roger Smith leads a discussion on the most under-told story in our nation’s history. While the American Revolution is often framed through events in the northern colonies, Florida played a very different and largely overlooked role. Even more striking is how little this history is known here in Florida, where these events unfolded and continue to shape our understanding of the nation’s founding.

Bio: Roger Smith received his Ph.D. in Early American History from the University of Florida where he is an adjunct professor, as well as an onboard historian/lecturer for American Cruise Lines. He was a board member with the Florida Council for History Education and consulted on the AMC TV show Turn.

Acknowledgement: Florida Reflections was developed by Florida Humanities and is part of By the People: Conversations Beyond 250–a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Funding is provided in part through the Thomas M. & Irene B. Kirbo Charitable Foundation, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Brevard. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or its partners

Registration is required for this event, and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are required for registration. If you do not have a card, click HERE to obtain one.

Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at 255-2665 or email JPLprograms@coj.net. 

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