Relatively few Americans have ever visited or know much about Russia, North Korea, and Turkey. Yet, each passing day seems to bring additional evidence that these nations are working to thwart U.S. foreign policy goals from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Many of us would like to better understand how these relationships went sour and wonder if they can be repaired. In September and October of 2017, Central Senior Services, a unit of the Free Library of Philadelphia, will host three experts from the University of Pennsylvania who can add critical background and context to our understanding of these ancient societies.
 

On Wednesday, September 6 at 11:00 a.m., James Ryan, a PhD Candidate, at the University of Pennsylvania, will discuss "Going Beyond The Headlines: What You Should Know About Turkey." Those wishing to learn more about Turkey prior to this free lecture, are invited to read Notes on a Foreign Country: An American Abroad in a Post-American World by Suzy Hansen (the publication date for this book is August 15, 2017).

On Tuesday, October 17 at 11:00 a.m., Dr. Benjamin Nathans, Associate Professor of History, at the University of Pennsylvania, will speak on "Going Beyond the Headlines: What You Should Know About Russia." Those wishing to learn more about Russia prior to this lecture are invited to read Should We Fear Russia? by Dmitri Trenin.

On Wednesday, October 25 at 11:00 A.M., Dr. Eugene Park, Korea Foundation Associate Professor of History, at the University of Pennsylvania will discuss "Going Beyond The Headlines: What You Should Know About North Korea." Those wishing to learn more about North Korea before the lecture are invited to read The Koreas (2nd Edition) by Charles Armstrong.

For additional information about this series, please contact Dick Levinson at levinsonr@freelibrary.org.