A Road Scholar Program by Norman Moline

The Great Lakes are one of the great natural wonders of the world, according to geographer and educator Norm Moline, yet surprisingly often, lists of such marvels fail to include them. The lakes and their connecting channels and portages have been pivotal in the settlement history and cultural geography of much of the Midwest, Northeast, and adjacent regions of Canada. Native Americans used the Great Lakes extensively. French colonizers explored the connections afforded by the lakes, which proved to be a vital nexus within the “crescent” of settlement that encompassed the Illinois Country. Throughout the subsequent centuries and geopolitical configurations, the Great Lakes have continued to play a variety of indispensable roles in transportation, commerce, ecology, and cultural identity.

An enthusiastic proponent of the greatness of the Great Lakes, Norm Moline will identify the many links within the Great Lakes watershed and with adjoining watersheds. He will elaborate on their multifaceted historical significance for the nation and for our region. He will also discuss some of the current environmental and political issues that affect Illinois and other states bordering these lakes.

More information on the Great Lakes is available at http://www.great-lakes.net.

This event is Free and Open to the public. For more information, please contact Marilyn Goodman, President – kirstensmama@gmail.com.