“The only difference between me and these people is my place of birth, and this is not a big difference.”

How has the honored memory of a Presbyterian missionary and a Princeton University graduate from Nebraska endured in a predominantly Muslim nation that has strained relations with the USA? More than a century after his death, American Howard C. Baskerville is considered a hero by many in Iran. For Iranians, Baskerville symbolizes a relationship between Iranians and Americans that is based on friendship and mutual respect. Most remarkably while forthrightly aiming to convert Iranians to his religion, he gave his life to help them thrive even if they rejected his religious beliefs.

This deep respect for human conscience can open American and Iranian hearts and minds to new possibilities as they face serious conflicts with each other. What we need today is less angry rhetoric, but perhaps a deeper appreciation for the history and humanity that forty-plus years of mutual recrimination and demonization, much of it driven by ideology, have failed to erase.

Reza Aslan, author of the upcoming book Baskerville, will present about the man known as the American Lafayette of Iran.

Join us for this webinar here.

Reza Aslan is a renowned writer, commentator, professor, Emmy-nominated producer, and scholar of religions. A recipient of the prestigious James Joyce award, Aslan is the author of three internationally best-selling books, including the #1 New York Times Bestseller, Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth. His producing credits include the acclaimed HBO series The Leftovers and the upcoming Chuck Lorre comedy United States of Al.

Sponsored by the Baskerville Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan, nongovernmental organization devoted to supporting and strengthening the bonds of friendships between Iranians and Americans.