The changing perspective of Idaho’s Basque-heritage citizens toward their culture is part of a program at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave, by history professor John Bieter, Thursday, May 27, at 7 p.m. in the Community Room.

This free audio-visual presentation on the history of the Basques in Idaho is built around a Basque application of Marcus L. Hansen’s “Law of Third Generation Return.” It states, in short, what the son wishes to forget, the grandson wishes to remember.

Bieter focuses on each of these generations and the organizations that they established, and what they felt they needed at that time in Idaho. While many may know about the Basques in shepherding, Bieter’s generational research offers a fresh perspective.

 Bieter graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a degree in Social Science and a concentration in Economics. He completed his Masters degree at Boise State University and  his thesis was published as “An Enduring Legacy: A History of the Basques in Idaho.” He earned his doctoral degree from Boston College where he focused his research and teaching interests on Immigration and Ethnicity, the American West, and American Catholicism.

 Currently Bieter serves as an advisor for pre-service educators in the College of Social Sciences and Public Affairs and as Director of the Center for Basque Studies. He is associate professor in the history department as well.

This presentation is funded by a grant from the Idaho Humanities Council, a nonprofit organization that serves as the state-based affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Anyone who needs accommodation to participate in a library program is asked to contact the staff prior to the activity by calling 208/769-2315. News about the library and other city departments is also available on the City of Coeur d’Alene news blog: http://cdacity.blogspot.com/.