The Mason Dixon Line: An Enduring Boundary in American History

Speaker: Mike Dixon

Suitable for Schools · Grades 9–12

This program delves into the complex history of the Mason-Dixon Line, an indelible boundary etched into the American landscape and collective memory. We begin by considering its original purpose: a survey conducted to resolve a bitter territorial feud over royal land grants. From there, we consider how the meaning of the line evolved during pivotal moments in the nation’s history and its representation in popular culture was established as a dividing line for regional attitudes and customs.