The Revolutionary Power of the Printing Press

May 20, 2026 | 5:30–8:00 p.m.

Discover how ink, paper, and bold ideas changed the course of history in “The Revolutionary Power of the Printing Press.” This engaging program brings to life the transformative role of print in shaping public thought, fueling debate, and inspiring revolution during the founding of the United States.

Heather Paisley-Jones, education specialist, and Stan Nelson, museum specialist emeritus, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History will lead an insightful program, featuring a live printing press demonstration. Attendees will learn about the return of the Museum’s Print-O-Rama program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and will gain a deeper understanding of how the spread of language (and the ability to share it widely) helped ignite a movement that defined a nation.

As part of the Smithsonian’s Making History, Making Change Lecture Series, the Indiana Historical Society and Conner Prairie are collaborating to delve into the revolutionary power of language. This program, located at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center, includes time to engage in multiple activities like exploring the Freedom of Press through letter-writing, stamping, and more from Conner Prairie, along with the Indiana Historical Society’s newest exhibit, Freedom’s Framework. This exhibit showcases rare original and influential documents that laid the foundation for American democracy, offering a powerful complement to the program’s themes.

Join us for a dynamic experience that connects technology, language, and liberty — revealing how the printed word helped spark a revolution and continues to shape our world today.

The Making History, Making Change Lecture Series is a national collaboration between the Smithsonian and 25 Smithsonian Affiliate organizations, featuring expert-led talks that explore the people, moments, and ideals that have shaped and continue to shape the American experience. Part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250, Making History, Making Change is organized by Smithsonian Affiliations and supported in part by the Dreier Family, Johanna and Ken Kim Family, Vaishali Shah Chadha and Family, and Michael Vu & Meridel Bulle-Vu.

5 p.m. – Check-in Opens

5:30 to 6 p.m. – Printing Press Demonstration

6 to 7:15 p.m. – Lecture and Q&A

7:15 to 8 p.m. – Conner Prairie and Exhibit experiences

Refreshments are included.