BIO

Hi! My name is Jonathan Sullivan. I originally grew up in Sarasota, Florida, but now I'm at FSU pursuing a degree in International Affairs. In my free time, you can find me in the FSU Flying High Circus, at Poetry Club, or Russian Table Conversation Club.

Florida for Sale: Achille Murat

Abstract

Territorial Florida in the 1820s till the 1840s was a historical melting pot of numerous characters from all over the world and of all backgrounds, whether it be indigenous natives, former slaves, old revolutionaries, or royalty. The Florida for Sale Project focuses on bringing these historical characters to life through theater. This particular portion of the project focuses on Achille Murat, born in Paris on January 21st, 1801, as heir to the throne of Naples, now exiled Florida plantation owner and political commentator till his death on April 15, 1847. We use primary sources like letters, journals, and newspaper articles from himself and the people around him to discover as much as we can about him, focusing on key events in his life, like his meeting with Lafayette or marriage with a descendant of George Washington. This project develops a character profile of Murat, using primary sources to probe his personality and motivation, providing the research basis for translating Achille Murat into a theatrical character.

Keywords: History, Florida, Murat, Theater, France