Debates in the People's House

A production of the Vermont Historical Society, 2004
Hosted by Sam Lloyd
Shot on location at the Vermont State House

Achieving consensus in a democratic society often involves bitter conflict and debate. This film shows three times in Vermont’s history when contentious issues were debated in the Vermont State House. In 2004, the Vermont Historical Society recreated the debates about the abolition of slavery, woman’s suffrage, and Civil Unions in the restored 19th century Vermont State House. The film includes video shot by Vermont Public Television in January 2000 showing the passionate public testimony about Civil Unions. In 2009, Vermont’s Legislature passed the Marriage Equality Act which legalized same-sex marriage.

Part 1 - Introduction and Abolition of Slavery: