After exploring the benefits of free market capitalism, we examine challenges of our time that stress our social order. Climate changes, income distribution issues, artificial intelligence, foreign trade and demographic concerns are some of the things that cause a lack of trust in the system and that puts free markets at risk. But there are reasons to hope the system can survive and thrive as we look to the future. No formal economic background is needed to join this class.

Meet the first Black Catholic slave of record to arrive on Texas soil in 1528, the enslaved layman who became New York's most beloved philanthropist. Discover the mixed-race brothers who became bishops while passing for white. Learn about the nuns who defied segregation and the activists who demanded the Church live up to its gospel. This course uncovers the remarkable—and largely forgotten—history of Black Catholics who challenged racism inside and outside the Church while creating vibrant spiritual communities. Powerful stories that will change how you see American history. Join us for eye-opening history that speaks directly to today's conversations about race, religion, and belonging.

 From Cuba to Ukraine: We will take a look at all the flashpoints that could have escalated into WWIII

 Today, the typical novel sells fewer than 1000 copies over its lifetime; Uncle Tom's Cabin sold more than 3000 copies on the first day of its publication in 1852. An international sensation, it was translated into more than 20 languages by the end of the decade, and was the first American novel to be translated into Chinese, in 1901. When Lincoln met the 5 foot tall Stowe he remarked, "So this is the little lady who started this great war." Perhaps the most important novel ever written, it's fast paced, psychologically astute, and culturally informed. We will be using the Norton Critical Edition of the book, which I ask students to purchase

This will be a single session class October 8th, about the South Bend Watch Company. We will discuss the need for high quality watches, a little about how they work, the company's origins, many of the people involved, products, location, ultimate demise and aftermath. For anyone who has an old pocket watch and would like to bring it to the class, I will remain afterward to provide any information I can about the watch.

Donations welcome to support the mission of Forever Learning Institute