Online Class: A ZOOM invitation link will be sent one day before class begins.
By the middle of the 18th century, coffee houses in England had become known as ‘penny universities,’ fashionable places for intellectuals to meet, purchase a cup of coffee (for a penny), exchange ideas, and debate the news of the day. One notable coffee house in Birmingham was Freeth’s, popular at a time when political discussion and challenge was often feared by those in positions of high authority. John Freeth sought, not only to offer a venue for such dialogue to take place, but also to provide entertainment for his guests while they reflected on the significant issues of the day. Join William at Freeth’s for an hour or so of reasoned and sober debate on matters of politics, science, philosophy and much more.
After a career in local government, William Philpott has spent more time researching, writing, and presenting aspects of political history, one of his life-long interests. William has had articles published in online magazines, made presentations to his local u3a history group, is a moderator for a history Facebook page, and a volunteer at his local museum.