LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, will host a presentation titled "James Buchanan, John Brown, and the 1859 Attack on Harper's Ferry" on Thursday, May 16. Doors will open and a reception will begin at 5 p.m. The lecture will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will also be livestreamed via Zoom.

In the fall of 1859, America stood at a precipice as John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry ignited controversy across a nation already grappling with the issue of slavery. At the upcoming program, John Quist, an author and professor of history, will explore the event that challenged the nation's conscience and Buchanan's role in the aftermath.

Quist is a professor of history at Shippensburg University and a prolific author. Quist's research includes several influential works on antebellum reform and pivotal figures of the Civil War era.

This program is free and open to the public. Preregistration is required for both in-person and virtual attendees by visiting http://www.lancasterhistory.org or calling 717-392-4633. Due to capacity restrictions, tickets may not be available at the door.