Samford University’s Department of History hosted historian Craig Bruce Smith on Sept. 16 for its annual Constitution Day lecture, exploring George Washington’s leadership during the American Revolution and his role in establishing the nation’s constitutional government.

Smith, a professor at the National Defense University’s Joint Advanced Warfighting School, presented a lecture titled “The Greatest Man in the World: George Washington from the Revolution to the Constitution.”

A published and nationally recognized scholar of George Washington, Smith recently served as a historical consultant for the 2026 film Young Washington. His lecture examined Washington’s character, leadership and contributions to the founding of the United States, highlighting the connection between the principles of the American Revolution and the development of the Constitution.

Students gained insight into Washington’s influence on the nation’s early government and the enduring importance of civic responsibility.

“Dr. Smith did a phenomenal job connecting Washington’s efforts in the 1780s with the principles of self-government for which he had fought the American Revolution,” said Jonathan Den Hartog, chair of Samford’s Department of History. “It was a great way to continue our celebration of America’s 250th birthday this year.”

The lecture was sponsored by the Department of History in Samford’s Howard College of Arts and Sciences and made possible through the Carolyn and Don Drennen Endowment for American History, Civics and the Constitution.

The event reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to advancing students’ understanding of American history, constitutional government and civic engagement. Through lectures and educational opportunities, the department seeks to equip students with the historical knowledge necessary to become informed and responsible citizens.

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