Richard Tomczak, involved in history and education at a university level, took part in a significant event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the battles of Lexington and Concord. The conference, titled “1775: A Society on the Brink of War & Revolution,” was organized by the David Center for the American Revolution along with other historical institutions. Broadcasts were available on both CSPAN and YouTube.
Tomczak presented a paper titled “The Invasion of Quebec and the Politics of Popular Protest, 1775-1776” as part of the conference's session called “The Coming of War.” His presentation drew on his new book, focusing on the effects of the American Revolution in Canada and how inhabitants of Quebec responded to American actions.
Amy Cook, vice provost for academic affairs at Stony Brook, remarked, “Certain moments remind us why we need scholars in the arts and humanities: our stories remind us who we are, who we have been, and who we strive to be.” She expressed pleasure at Tomczak's participation, highlighting the importance of storytelling in understanding historical identity.
Held at the Concord Museum in Massachusetts, the conference included several sessions and discussions from notable scholars like Serena Zabin and Robert A. Gross, covering diverse aspects from the inevitability of the revolution to cultural interpretations of the events.
The David Center for the American Revolution plans further activities under the “America 2026” project, which strives to explore connections and influences of the American Revolution up to the present day.
The Concord Museum's initiatives complement these academic pursuits with exhibitions and forums like “Whose Revolution,” aiming to engage and expand public understanding of the Revolution's legacy.
In line with promoting his book, Tomczak has already participated in a lecture at Missouri State University and plans further engagements, including a book launch and a speaking event at Fort Ticonderoga’s Seven Years War College.