Local historian presents Milwaukee's surprising political history at Newcastle Place

With the election season still fresh in our minds, local residents might be interested to learn that Milwaukee has a unique political history, at least according to local historian John Gurda.

Gurda shared his extensive insight into Milwaukee’s political history at a recent lecture event at Newcastle Place in Mequon. At the event, Newcastle Place residents and members of the local community learned about three eras of Milwaukee’s political history: war politics, ethnic politics and reform politics.

According to Gurda, today’s politics are marked by “toxic polarization” and a “skeptical public.” Though the arguments have changed and the issues have evolved, polarization is nothing new in Milwaukee. From polarized factions warring for control of the city in the mid 1800s, to rifts between groups of American immigrants in the 1860s and the progressive vs. socialist debates of the early 1900s – polarization in Milwaukee politics is nothing new.

“We’re thankful to John Gurda for visiting our community and delivering this compelling presentation,” said Julie Bissonnette, executive director of Newcastle Place. “Newcastle Place is committed to providing opportunities for our residents to be lifelong learners and engage in thoughtful dialogue around relevant issues.”

The lecture was part of Newcastle Place’s ongoing commitment to continuous learning.

“It was a fascinating look into Milwaukee political history,” said Eunice Courtney, resident at Newcastle Place. “As we make decisions about who we want leading our communities in the future, it’s an interesting exercise to consider our past.”