Panel: Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Bay Area — Then and Now

Wednesday, 10/28/2026
5:00 - 7:30

Suitable for:

Adults

Explore the German-American people, ideas, and innovations that have shaped the San Francisco Bay Area, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley. More than 40 million Americans claim German ancestry, making German Americans one of the country's largest ancestry groups. Their influence is woven into the history of the Bay Area, from German-American Mayor Adolph Sutro to Levi Strauss and the Golden Gate Park Bandshell.

Award-winning author Sandra Bonura opens the evening with the story of Claus Spreckels, the German-born “Sugar King of California,” who built an industrial empire stretching from San Francisco to Hawaii. German journalist Arndt Peltner follows with a broader look at the German immigrants and German Americans who helped shape the region from the Gold Rush onward. Silicon Valley entrepreneurship specialist Anne Cocquyt brings the story into the present, exploring the continuing connections between German innovation and Bay Area entrepreneurship.

Reuters editor Judith Langowski moderates the conversation, followed by a Q&A.

Author Readings & Lectures

Engage with your favorite writers and discover your next read.

History

Learn about historical events.

Politics & Current Affairs

Get informed about local and national civic issues.

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

Public Notice and Disclaimer

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The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.