This week on Spotlight … celebrate America250 with stories from America’s founding era. Bestselling author Brad Meltzer discusses The First Conspiracy and a secret plot against George Washington, while the co-authors of My Dear Hamilton reveal how they reconstructed the life of founding mother Eliza Hamilton. Author Nick Bunker explores the early years of Benjamin Franklin, and we uncover mysteries surrounding a copy of the Declaration of Independence and Thomas Jefferson’s book collection at Washington University in St. Louis. Plus, experience Revolutionary War history in action at Cannon School in Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois.

Adventures in Writing with Brad Meltzer
Bestselling author Brad Meltzer discusses how he writes/researches, family & his book “The First Conspiracy,” a non-fiction on a secret plot to kill George Washington.

Finding Eliza Hamilton’s Voice
She famously burned her letters, but the co-authors of “My Dear Hamilton” discuss how they unearthed the remarkable story of founding mother, Eliza Hamilton.

Young Benjamin Franklin
Paul Schankman talks with author Nick Bunker about his book, “Young Benjamin Franklin,” offering readers a fascinating look at the youth of this founding father.

A Declaration and a Mystery
At Washington University in St. Louis you’ll find a copy of the Declaration of Independence and a collection of Thomas Jefferson’s books. Both have some mystery.

You’re Fired! Welcome to Cannon School
Once a year, black powder cannon enthusiasts get together at an old fort in Prairie Du Rocher, Illinois to learn how to shoot a cannon safely. And it’s a blast!