On Tuesday, July 31 from 7 to 8 p.m., Kurk Dorsey, who has taught history at the University of New Hampshire since 1994, will present “The Seoul Exception: The United States’ Decision to Fight in Korea.”
Part of the Wright Museum of World War II’s Lecture Series, sponsored by Ron Goodgame and Donna Canney, the lecture will explore the events and thinking that led President Truman to unexpectedly involve the U.S. in the Korean War.
“His presentation is relevant to today given various world events, as he speaks about the causes of the war and its aftermath,” said Michael Culver, executive director of the Wright Museum. “This is a presentation that should not be missed by anyone interested in history.”
Prior to North Korea’s invasion of South Korea, the U.S. had spent the previous two years not involved in the growing tensions in the region. Because of that, North Korea did not expect the U.S. to respond to its invasion–and most Americans did not expect it either.
The first military action of the Cold War saw 75,000 North Korean troops storm into South Korea. It began a conflict that lasted from 1950-1953 and cost the lives of 40,000 U.S. soldiers with more than 100,000 other U.S. servicemen wounded.
The Wright Museum’s Lecture Series takes place every Tuesday through the end of the museum’s season, which concludes Oct. 31.
Admission is $3 for members and $8 for non-members. Seating is limited, and reservations can be made by calling 603-569-1212.
Wright Museum is open daily through Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays.
