Great Senate Debates
Where history comes to life
The United States Senate has long been the scene of some of this nation’s most important oratory. The Institute brings these decisive deliberations to life in its newest program, Great Senate Debates. Blending live performance with historic film footage and archival images, this inspiring 20-minute program examines the context and importance of crucial turning points in Senate history, and reflects on their impact on our lives today.
Great Senate Debates is currently running in the Institute’s Senate Chamber Tuesday through Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and Sunday at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Schedule subject to change for special events.
Current debate
The current Great Senate Debate is League of Nations. This program explores the crucial foreign policy debate surrounding the Treaty of Versailles and League of Nations in 1919. Featuring speeches from President Wilson and Senators William Borah, Hiram Johnson, and Oscar Underwood, Great Senate Debates: League of Nations highlights America’s struggle to retain its sovereignty, even as it is elevated to the status of world power in the post-World War I world, as well as the impact of that debate on modern policy and diplomacy.
Tickets
Don’t miss some of the most important speeches ever made on the Senate floor. Get your tickets now.
