The American Plate: A Culinary History in 100 Bites

Dr. Libby O'Connell, chief historian for History Channel, will discuss American culinary history and food traditions in this talk drawn from her new book The American Plate: A Culinary History in 100 Bites. Dr. O'Connell's lecture explores key moments in U.S. history through the lens of food, from indigenous food preparation to immigrant journeys to 20th century food fads, to describe how and why food can be a central through-line for understanding American history and culture. Emmy-award-winning producer, preservationist, and cultural historian Libby O’Connell is Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Chief Historian for A+E Networks, including the History Channel. As part of the History Channel’s commitment to corporate citizenship, Dr. O’Connell executiveproduces on site films for organizations such as the Smithsonian, Ellis Island, and Gettysburg. She has received three Emmys for her television work. Dr. O'Connell received her B.A. from Tufts University and her M.A. and Ph.D. in American history from the University of Virginia. She serves on the boards of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. In 2013, the White House appointed her as a commissioner on the United States World War I Centennial Commission. Dr. O’Connell is married to Matt O’Connell and has two adult children. Growing up, her family traveled extensively, which led to her lifelong fascination with international cultures. Dr. O'Connell is the author of The American Plate: A Culinary History in 100 Bites, published in November 2014.