Propaganda and American Revolution program set Sept. 18

Propaganda, a method of persuasion that attempts to influence the emotions, attitudes, opinions and actions of people, is used for ideological, political and/or commercial purposes. Modern-day propaganda has many media resources to influence the thought processes of the populace. During the era of the American Revolution, the American colonies had a flourishing network of newspapers and printers that specialized in the use of propaganda on behalf of the patriots and also somewhat for loyalists.

The Rehoboth Beach Museum will present historian John Gauger discussing the use of propaganda during the American Revolution at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 18. Gauger has collected examples of propaganda proliferated during the American Revolution. The program will consist of a slide show and lecture. Gauger is a retired professor of history and political science from Lehigh Carbon Community College in Allentown, Pa., and Muhlenberg College. He recently appeared at the museum with a lecture on the history of the electoral college.

Epworth United Methodist Church hosted the program last spring during renovation of the museum’s second floor. The response was so enthusiastic that not everyone who wanted to attend could be accommodated, and Gauger has kindly agreed to offer it again.

For reservation, call 302-227-7310. The museum is at 511 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, next to the information center. Parking is available and the building is handicapped accessible.