The Pauline Maier Early American History Seminar provides a forum for local scholars as well as members of the general public to discuss all aspects of North American history and culture from the first English colonization to the early republic. Programs are not confined to Massachusetts topics, and most focus on works in progress.

These sessions bring together a diverse group of scholars and interested members of the public to workshop a pre-circulated paper. After brief remarks from the author and an assigned commentator, the discussion is opened to the floor. All are encouraged to ask questions, provide feedback on the circulated essay, and discuss the topic at hand. Our sessions are free and open to everyone.

How to Attend: Register through our Calendar of Events and you will receive the session's discussion paper the day before the seminar by email.

Subscribe: Purchasing a $25 seminar subscription gives you special advanced access to the seminar papers of all seven seminar series for the current academic year. Subscribe here.

Subscriber Login: Already a subscriber? Use your passcode to view currently available essays.

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Questions? Email seminars@masshist.org.

Call for Proposals!

Deadline: May 1, 2025

We are currently accepting proposals for the 2025-2026 seminar season. For more information, see the Call for Proposals.