Online Lecture: GIs in Britain — The British People & American Troops in WWII

During World War II, the arrival of over a million American servicemen in Britain sparked both cultural exchange and social tensions. Join historian Ruth Polling as she examines how the presence of GIs reshaped British communities, from friendships and alliances to moments of friction. This free lecture will explore the everyday encounters that revealed striking cultural differences — whether in attitudes toward dating, spending or social customs — and the challenges of two nations adjusting to life side by side in wartime.

Your online lecture will take place live over the course of 1-2 hours. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly. This live online experience uses Zoom Webinar, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. You will receive a confirmation email when you enroll, and a reminder email one week and one day before, as well as the morning of the event with a link and instructions on how to tune in. You will not be pictured on screen during the lecture, but you will have the opportunity to ask the instructor live questions using the Q&A box. Unless otherwise noted, all those who enroll in this program receive access to the live event as well as a recording of the lecture that you can watch any time within the two weeks following the live event.