History and Political Science
Ralph Nurnberger, Ph.D., is a widely acclaimed speaker who brings humor, current political insights, and historical background to his presentations. In addition to giving talks nationally and at The Smithsonian Institute, Professor Nurnberger has appeared as an analyst on television and radio programs. He has also spoken internationally and on a number of cruises. He has given presentations on a wide range of historical and political topics at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at FAU. Professor Nurnberger taught at Georgetown University for 38 years and was named Professor of the Year by the Graduate School of Liberal Studies in 2003.
Media Story
Some movie extras added something extra to films shot in Washington - by John Kelly, columnist (September 2, 2020)
Being an extra in a movie seems like the easiest job in the world: Just stand around and try not to look at the camera. But some extras need to have a little .?.?. extra.
In 1972, Ralph Nurnberger was a graduate student at Georgetown University competing in the finals of an intramural tennis championship. The casting director for “The Exorcist” happened to be walking by one day, scouting for people who looked as if they belonged on the campus.
Ralph was hired on the spot as a “skilled extra.” His task was to play tennis on the courts next to Lauinger Library while Lee Jay Cobb and Jason Miller walked by discussing the strange goings on in the Georgetown community, including the death of a priest. (The courts have since been replaced by dorms.)
“One of the players on the next court was Linda Tuero, who was an internationally ranked player,” wrote Ralph, of Arlington, Va. “Later, she married William Peter Blatty, who had written the novel that was the basis for the film.”
Ralph later taught at the university. “For many years, I invited my Georgetown students to have dinner at our home — so that we could have an off-campus discussion,” he wrote. “I usually also showed them my ‘30 seconds of fame.’?”
News Articles
George Washington in Barbados
A Remarkable Journey
How did a young man’s visit to a remote Caribbean island alter the course of American history? George Washington left the mainland only once in his lifetime when he sailed to Barbados in 1751. He accompanied his half-brother Lawrence, who had contracted tuberculosis and hoped that the island's warm climate would ameliorate the disease.
The four-month voyage proved to be significant for the then-19-year-old Washington. He spent time with British soldiers and viewed their fortifications and arms, which fascinated him enough to shift his career goals from being a surveyor to a military career path. Washington also contracted smallpox while in Barbados. After recovery, he gained a lifelong immunity and an understanding of the benefits of inoculation. Although there were anti-immunization, protests, General Washington ordered that the troops be inoculated in 1777. This decision was a significant factor in the outcome of the American Revolution.
Despite its important consequences, the journey remains one of the lesser-known episodes of Washington’s early life. Historian Ralph Nurnberger details this remarkable trip and highlights the impact it had on Washington, his career, the outcome of the American Revolution and medical history.
Live In-Person with Video Catch-up Available 2-3 business days after live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.
Register Early! There is a $5 charge for registering on the day of a one-time lecture or event.
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| Course # W1RB — One Time Event
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| Place: | Auditorium, Lifelong Learning Complex, Jupiter Campus |
| Dates: | Thursday, March 7 2024 |
| Time: | 9:30 - 11 AM |
| Fee: | $35 / member; $40 / non-member |
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Register Now
Aaron Burr: The Most Controversial Founding Father
Aaron Burr, a distinctive Founding Father, continues to spark debates about his political significance, character, and loyalty. A Revolutionary War hero, U.S. senator, and third vice president, he succeeded John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. As a New York state legislator, Burr championed abolishing slavery and advocated for women's rights. In the Senate, he clarified the separation of powers in American diplomacy. However, Burr's legacy largely revolves around his involvement in the 1800 presidential election, the infamous duel with Hamilton, and his western "adventures." Despite being Jefferson's running mate, both received 73 electoral votes in 1800, leading to a prolonged House of Representatives debate and the subsequent passage of the 12th Amendment.
The 1804 duel resulted in Burr's indictment for murder. After the completion of his vice-presidential term, he raised armed forces in the western states, facing charges of treason in the divisive "trial of the century," with some advocating for his execution and others viewing him as a patriot. Historian Ralph Nurnberger delves into the complexities of this fascinating early American political leader, exploring why contradictory opinions persist among his contemporaries and historians regarding Aaron Burr.
Live In-Person with Video Catch-up Available 2-3 business days after live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.
Register Early! There is a $5 charge for registering on the day of a one-time lecture or event.
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| Course # W1R3 — One Time Event
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| Place: | Auditorium, Lifelong Learning Complex, Jupiter Campus |
| Dates: | Thursday, January 25 2024 |
| Time: | 9:30 - 11 AM |
| Fee: | $35 / member; $40 / non-member |
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Register Now
