American History professor Robert Watson will discuss his newest book, Declaration: The Story of American Independence, at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, at The Community Library in Ketchum.

The book shares the lesser-known stories, surprising twists, and forgotten voices behind the most iconic document in U.S. history.

In Declaration, Watson delves into the complex origins of the July 1776 Declaration of Independence, showcasing how a series of missteps by the British Crown, shifting colonial sentiments and a convergence of enlightened thinkers led to a revolutionary moment that changed the course of history.

Drawing from a wealth of primary sources, Watson reconstructs the debates, drafts, and drama that surrounded the document’s creation.

Complete with a unique look into the influence of women, enslaved individuals, and indigenous peoples, Declaration brings to light the diverse cast of characters and perspectives that shaped the American experiment. It explores the document’s philosophical roots, its political impact, and the enduring struggle to realize its lofty promises of liberty and equality.

“Dr. Watson came recommended to us by two community members who have heard him speak in recent years,” said Martha Williams, the Library’s director of programs and education. “We were immediately thrilled to learn about his work, especially how his research foregrounds a wide range of voices and perspectives for us to consider as we reflect on our nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. These are the figures whose ideals, debates, and writings began shaping the great experiment we are still realizing.”

Watson holds the titles of Distinguished Professor of American History, Avron Fogelman Research Professor, and Assistant Director of the Center for Citizenship & Civility at Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. His publications include over 40 books on topics in politics and history. Most recently, he was awarded the Gold Medal in History at the Independence Publishers Awards for George Washington’s Final Battle.

Declaration was released from Bloomsbury earlier this year.