Author Talk With John Garrison Marks: "Thy Will Be Done"

As we reflect on 250 years of America's history, we invite you to join us for an impactful and important conversation with historian and author John Garrison Marks.

Marks will discuss his newest work, Thy Will Be Done: George Washington's Legacy of Slavery and the Fight for American Memory (2026), where he tells the story of Americans' long, fraught struggle to come to terms with Washington's legacy of slavery.

The program will lead with a question Americans have reflected on for nearly 250 years: How should we remember George Washington's entanglement in slavery?

Using research foundational to Thy Will Be Done, Marks will speak to Washington's ties to slavery, and how the actions seen in his life's work have shaped and reshaped Americans' collective memory of Washington and slavery — along with their understanding of the nation.

The program will include a discussion with Heather Bruegl (Oneida/Stockbridge-Munsee), Curator of Political and Civic Engagement at The Henry Ford, and be followed by a brief audience Q&A and book signing, with the opportunity to purchase a copy of Thy Will Be Done.

The Henry Ford is committed to being a welcoming place for curiosity, learning and the open exchange of ideas. Programs featuring guest speakers are intended to encourage thoughtful conversation and exploration. The views shared at these events do not necessarily reflect those of The Henry Ford.