Conspirator in Chief: The Long Tradition of Presidential Conspiracy Mongering – Stephen Knott, PhD
In Person
Conspiracy theories have been part of American political life from the beginning. Drawing from his recent book, Conspirator in Chief: The Long Tradition of Conspiracy Theories in the American Presidency, Knott examines presidents throughout American history who promoted or circulated political rumors and falsehoods, exploring how such claims have been used to undermine opponents and influence public opinion.
He will offer examples ranging from Thomas Jefferson to Donald Trump, as well as presidents who shunned conspiracy mongering and appealed instead to what Abraham Lincoln called the “better angels of our nature.”
Books may be purchased in advance through online or local booksellers. A book signing will follow.
Bio:
Dr. Stephen Knott is an Emeritus Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College in Newport, RI and is the Thomas & Mabel Guy Professor of American History and Government at Ashland University. Prior to accepting his position at the Naval War College, Knott was Co-Chair of the Presidential Oral History Program at the Miller Center of Public Affairs at the University of Virginia. He is the author or co-author of eleven books examining with the American presidency, the early republic, and American foreign policy. His most recent book, Conspirator in Chief: The Long Tradition of Conspiracy Theories in the American Presidency, was published in 2026.