The Cotton Gin: The Technology that Changed the US, and Destroyed It

🎤 The Cotton Gin: The Technology that Changed the US, and Destroyed It.

By the late 18th century, some believed slavery in the United States might gradually fade away. But the invention of the cotton gin in 1793 transformed everything. This seemingly simple machine made cotton wildly profitable — and in doing so, it entrenched slavery deeper into the American South, reshaping the nation’s economy, politics, and path to civil war.

Join us for a revealing seminar that traces the story of slavery in America, the rise of the plantation system, and how one invention reversed expectations of slavery’s decline. We’ll explore how the cotton gin fueled expansion, hardened divisions, and set the United States on a collision course with its own ideals of liberty.

🎓 Presented by Dr. Scott Craig, an award-winning historian and university lecturer with over 15 years of teaching experience, this one-hour session is perfect for curious adults who enjoy exploring the turning points of history.

✅ What to Expect

• A welcoming, conversational environment—no prior knowledge required
• Fascinating insights into slavery, plantations, and technology in early America
• A chance to connect with like-minded lifelong learners
• A deeper look at how one machine reshaped an entire nation’s destiny

🗓️ Date & Time: Friday, 05 December | 12:00–1:00 PM

📍 Location: Chermside Library, 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside QLD

🎟️ Tickets: FREE – Spaces are limited, so reserve your seat now

✨ Be part of Platform Lifelong Learning — Brisbane’s home for enriching community seminars. Come explore how a single invention transformed — and ultimately devastated — a nation.

Also check out other Workshops in Chermside.