Event #43
Don Watson: The Shortest History of the United States of America
Powerhouse Theatre
Regular Program
#About the event
Duration: 60 minutes
Don Watson: The Shortest History of the United States of America
In conversation with Michael Ondaatje
2:45–3:45pm, Friday 9 October, Powerhouse Theatre
The United States has been in the news a lot lately – but tracing its past can bring fresh perspective to its tumultuous present. Lucky for us, acclaimed historian Don Watson – who’s been enlightening readers for decades with his elegant and engaging commentary on US history, culture and politics – is on the case. His latest book is a pithy and perfect introduction to America’s grit, glamour and grift, from the declaration of independence to the twenty-first century.
#Artists
Don Watson
Don Watson is the author of many acclaimed books, as well as three Quarterly Essays on American culture and politics. His latest book is The Shortest History of the United States of America.
Michael Ondaatje
Michael Ondaatje is Dean (Research) in Arts, Education and Law, and Professor of History, at Griffith University. Michael is a prize-winning researcher and teacher and a regular commentator on American history and politics in the media. He is a recipient of the Max Crawford Medal – ‘Australia’s most prestigious award for achievement and promise in the humanities.’ In 2026, the US Consulate General in Sydney formally recognised Michael for his ‘extraordinary and enduring contribution to fostering understanding of the United States and its history among Australian students and scholars’.
#Series
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