Nathaniel Philbrick's The Rush: California Gold, the Civil War, and the Making of the Modern World.

The Needham Free Public Library and the Friends of the Needham Public Library are delighted to present a special free Meet the Author event featuring acclaimed historian and bestselling author Nathaniel Philbrick, who will appear in conversation with Randall MacLowry, an award-winning filmmaker whose work includes “The Gold Rush”for GBH PBS’s American Experience. 

Nantucket-based Philbrick, who won the National Book Award for In the Heart of the Sea, will discuss his newest bestselling book, The Rush: California Gold, the Civil War, and the Making of the Modern World. In The Rush, National Book Award winner Nathaniel Philbrick reveals how the discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill ignited the greatest voluntary migration in U.S. history, creating a volatile, allworld society that reshaped California and the nation. Philbrick shows how the scramble for wealth, power, and belonging in the Gold Rush era hardened into political conflict, tipping the balance toward civil war and forging the contradictions of the modern United States.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required due to anticipated demand and to ensure adequate seating.

Wellesley Books will be on hand selling copies of The Rush and other selected Philbrick titles, giving attendees the opportunity to purchase books before meeting the author. Philbrick will sign books following the conversation and audience Q&A.