Race riots. Class warfare. Women on the march. Political assassinations. The infamous Palmer Raids. And all while facing-down the deadliest influenza pandemic in human history (even worse than the Black Death, look it up). 1919 is remembered by scholars as one of the most tumultuous years in American history.

Join us for a history-themed New Year’s Olio as we mark the centennial of 1919 – a year where fissures across race, class, gender, politics, and public health made it seem to many as if the nation was being torn apart at the seams. Front and center will be an examination of how and why this hellish year silenced much of the idealism and social justice initiatives of the early twentieth century and brought an end to what historians call the Progressive Era. All attendees will receive a healthy dose of historical perspective reminding them that while the United States is not presently living its best life, things could be a lot worse.

*This Olio is hosted at an apartment in Williamsburg off of the L train to Graham Ave. We will send out the exact address a few days in advance.*