Mount Vernon in the United Kingdom

“Spain and the Global Struggle for United States Independence” will explore the important role of Spain in the age of the American Revolution and in the early years of the new United States. The conference will bring together historians from both sides of the Atlantic to examine the wars for empire, contests for territory, and the Enlightenment-era political ideas that shaped so much of the eighteenth century as well as the important legacy of Spain’s decision to declare war on Great Britain in 1779. Following this focus on the American Revolution and the Founding of the new United States, the conversation will extend to the ongoing diplomatic and cultural relationships between the two nations, from the presidency of George Washington to our own time.

The conference is organized by Mount Vernon’s Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington, with consultation from our academic partner, Universidad Complutense, Madrid. Alongside the academic goals of the gathering, the program is designed to appeal both to scholars and to a more general audience of enthusiasts of Spain, George Washington and history.

CONFERENCE SESSIONS AND LIST OF SCHOLARS

Immediately following the conference, a 5-day travel experience led by expert guides and curators will explore Madrid and surrounding cities and countryside. The travel program will serve as a complementary experience exploring Spain’s ties to U.S., along with the art, architecture, and rich sociopolitical history of the region. Hand-selected historians will accompany us on visits to museums and sites of historic significance to bring 18^th century Spain to life as it relates to the founding of the U.S.

Enjoy eight nights of luxury accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz Hotel, exquisite meals, and tours of the art, architecture, and rich sociopolitical history of the region led by historians and curators. We hope you will join us for insider experiences such as sharing meals in private palaces, private after-hour tours of museums and backstage access to national treasures that tie back to the 18th-century relationship between Spain and the new United States.

SEE THE ITINERARY

Eligibility: Please note that the Mount Vernon Travel Program is a benefit available to Mount Vernon donors of $10,000 or more. To discuss your giving, please email KHill@mountvernon.org, or call 703-799-8666.

Mount Vernon seeks funding from foundation, corporate and individual sponsors to underwrite the academic elements of the conference, including hosting lunch or dinner. Please email Kenneth Hill at KHill@mountvernon.org, or call 703-799-8666 to learn more about sponsor benefits.