So what do Eleanor Roosevelt, Woody Guthrie, and Jackie Robinson have in common besides the stage at Chautauqua performances this summer in Maryland? The Chautauqua 2009 theme is “Rights and Reformers” and each of these historic characters had great impact on improving life for future generations. They all lived and strove for improving the life of Americans in their different ways through the 1930s, 40s, and 50s—the era of great reform movements.

Eleanor Roosevelt, a child of wealth and privilege, worked tirelessly for the poor as the nation’s First Lady and later with the United Nations. Singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie was an outspoken advocate for free speech, economic justice, and the right to unionize. Jackie Robinson brought great personal dignity and professionalism to major league baseball when he broke the color line in 1947; leading the way for the many other great African American players.

Join us at Chautauqua this summer to learn more about these all-American historic figures, the times in which they lived, and how their legacy continues today. Check out the calendar for a complete listing of dates, times, and locations.

Tags: Chautauqua

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