From August 1992 to April 1995, three tragic and high-profile events—Ruby Ridge, Waco, and the Oklahoma City bombing— captured the attention of the nation, as federal forces clashed with U.S. civilians. These incidents, often tied together in media coverage, are marked by themes of freedom, religion, and guns. John Powers, a Lifelong Learning program educator, will delve deeper into the individuals involved and the decision-making processes that escalated these confrontations, leading to devastating loss and destruction in the heart of America. With the benefit of 30 years of perspective, we’ll move beyond the headlines and explore the complexities of these events, uncovering the broader social and political forces at play. Join us for a thought-provoking examination of a pivotal period in U.S. history, where we seek to understand the true causes and consequences of these tragic moments.