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America: A History Podcast

Liam Heffernan

  • 31 minutes 57 seconds
    What is the War of 1812?

    The War of 1812 was a significant yet often misunderstood conflict between the United States and Britain, driven by a mix of economic interests and territorial ambitions.

    This war was not just about impressment of American sailors or maritime rights; it was a bold land grab aimed at expanding the United States into British North America, now known as Canada, and the American desire for economic gain through neutrality, which ultimately backfired.

    So in this episode, on the 210th anniversary of the Treaty of Ghent, which brought an end to the war, I’m going to find out exactly how it started, what happened, and its importance in shaping the future of the United States, as I ask… what is the War of 1812?

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Professor Andrew Lambert, a Laughton Professor of Naval History in the Department of War Studies at King's College. His books include The Challenge: Britain Against America in the Naval War of 1812

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The Treaty of Ghent marked the end of the War of 1812 on Christmas Eve 1814.
    • The United States sought to expand by invading British North America, aiming for Canada.
    • Impressment and economic warfare were central issues leading to the War of 1812.
    • The War of 1812 was not just a conflict with Britain but involved Native American resistance.
    • The British successfully blockaded American ports, crippling the U.S. economy and forcing peace.
    • American narratives often portray the War of 1812 differently than British historical accounts.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Listen: The British way of war, Julian Corbett and national strategy with Professor Andrew Lambert in The War Studies Podcast

    Read: The Challenge: Britain Against America in the Naval War of 1812 by Andrew Lambert

    Read: War of 1812 Timeline | American Battlefield Trust 

    Read: Battle of Horseshoe Bend Facts and Overview - The History Junkie

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan?

    Is America an Empire?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    22 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 10 minutes
    BONUS: The Christmas Goose & Our Favourite On-Screen Santa

    In this special festive bonus episode, Liam & guests discuss their own personal Christmas traditions, their favourite screen Santa Claus and what, if anything, we would change or add to the myth of Santa.

    Happy holidays everyone!

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    Special guest for this episode:


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    Highlights from this episode:

    • The importance of traditions like Santa Claus in family celebrations.
    • Brian explains the Christmas Goose.
    • Tom reflects on the evolution of Santa Claus in modern holiday culture and media.
    • How children's understanding of Santa changes as they grow older.
    • The fleeting nature of childhood magic during Christmas celebrations.
    • The portrayal of Mrs. Claus and her evolving role.

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    What is the War on Christmas?

    How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie

    What's the History of Christmas in America?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    17 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 34 minutes 19 seconds
    Who is Santa Claus?

    Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, Sinterklaas, Babbo Natale, Kanakaloka, Papa Noel, and Saint Nicholas - just some of the names used for a figure who has become synonymous with Christmas around the world. But who is this jolly fat man with the beard, and what makes him so American? In this episode, as we deck our halls and get ready for the holidays, I want to know… who is Santa Claus?

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    Special guest for this episode:


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    Highlights from this episode:

    • The figure of Santa Claus emerged as a distinct character in early 19th century America, influenced by various European traditions.
    • Santa Claus is primarily associated with generosity and kindness, contrasting with earlier gift-bringing figures who had more sinister traits.
    • Coca-Cola played a significant role in popularizing the red-suited image of Santa, although he was already depicted in red in earlier literature.
    • The evolution of Santa Claus reflects a blend of cultural influences, including Dutch, German, and British traditions.
    • Father Christmas and Santa Claus have merged over time, leading to a shared image of a benevolent gift-bringer.
    • The commercialization of Santa Claus began as early as the 1820s, intertwining with seasonal marketing strategies in America.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    READ: The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman by Thomas Ruys Smith

    LISTEN: Christmas Past by Brian Earl

    READ: The Children's Friend

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    What is the War on Christmas?

    How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie

    What's the History of Christmas in America?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    15 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 11 minutes 36 seconds
    BONUS: The Best Christmas Films of All Time

    In this special festive bonus episode, we jump in our Christmas movie time machine and chat about everything from It's a Wonderful Life to Klaus with a stop at 34th Street and more, and discuss our personal holiday favourites.

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    Special guest for this episode:

    • Dr. Vaughn Joy, an academic who recently completed her PhD at UCL on mid-century Hollywood politics through a case study on Christmas films

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The significance of Christmas films in American culture.
    • The artistic merits and cultural implications of Klaus.
    • Different versions of Miracle on 34th Street reveals cultural shifts.
    • Nostalgia's role in remaking classic Christmas films in the 1990s.
    • Klaus as a standout modern Christmas film.
    • Christmas movies can reflect and shape American beliefs over time.

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    What is the War on Christmas?

    How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie

    What's the History of Christmas in America?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    10 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 38 minutes 11 seconds
    What Do Christmas Films Tell Us About America?

    With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to dust off those old DVDs, whip up some egg nogg, and cosy up on the sofa with a festive film.

    From It's a White Christmas to Miracle on 34th Street, there's nothing quite like losing ourselves in a holiday favourite, but why do Christmas films resonate so much? Is the genre more important than we like to think? And ultimately… what can Christmas films really tell us about America?

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Vaughn Joy, an academic who recently completed her PhD at UCL on mid-century Hollywood politics through a case study on Christmas films.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • Christmas films serve as a cultural lens reflecting American values, traditions, and social dynamics.
    • The genre of Christmas movies often combines sentimentality with deeper societal critiques and historical contexts.
    • Films like 'It's a Wonderful Life' convey collective national trauma while promoting themes of togetherness.
    • The debate over whether 'Die Hard' qualifies as a Christmas movie highlights the subjectivity of genre definitions.
    • Hollywood Christmas films can both mirror and shape the ways people celebrate the holiday season.
    • The evolution of Christmas films illustrates changing American identities and the commercialization of holiday traditions.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Review Roulette | Vaughn Joy | Substack

    Christmas movies: that time of year when home is where the heart is

    What 'It's a Wonderful Life' Teaches Us About American History | Smithsonian

    The Battle for Christmas: A Cultural History of America's Most Cherished Holiday: Amazon.co.uk: Nissenbaum, Stephen: 9780679740384: Books

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    What is the War on Christmas?

    How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie

    What's the History of Christmas in America?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    8 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 12 minutes 40 seconds
    BONUS: Faith, Feminism, and the American South

    In this bonus episode, we take a deeper look at the complex relationship between religion and American identity, particularly in the context of the Bible Belt, with help from Dr. Megan Hunt.

    We discuss the stereotypes perpetuated by Hollywood, including the portrayal of the religious middle-class housewife, and how these depictions reflect broader societal issues in the South PLUS the controversial narrative presented in J.D. Vance's "Hillbilly Elegy," examining the implications of his portrayal of his background as he transitions into a political figure.

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    Special guest for this episode:

    • Dr. Megan Hunt, a cultural historian of the modern United States at Edinburgh University, whose new book, Southern by the Grace of God, is available

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    Highlights from this episode:

    • The Bible Belt is a complex cultural landscape deeply intertwined with American identity.
    • Historically, many settlers in North America sought religious freedom, shaping the region's character.
    • Post-World War II America saw a surge in overt religiosity as a political statement.
    • Media representations often reinforce stereotypes about religion and the Bible Belt in America.
    • The portrayal of Southern women in Hollywood reflects both cultural traditions and historical complexities.
    • J.D. Vance's 'Hillbilly Elegy' has sparked controversy for its portrayal of Appalachian identity.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Southern by the Grace of God by Megan Hunt

    Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance

    https://www.dukeupress.edu/reconstructing-dixie

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States

    Is America an Empire?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    3 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 43 minutes 21 seconds
    What is the Bible Belt?

    America's Bible Belt, a term coined nearly a century ago, remains a significant cultural and political phenomenon, representing regions in the South and parts of the Midwest known for their strong evangelical Christian traditions.

    In this episode, we dive into the origins and implications of this term, exploring how it encapsulates not just a geographical area but also a complex interplay of religion, politics, and societal stereotypes.

    From its roots in H.L. Mencken's critical portrayal of the South during the 1920s, to how this perception continues to shape contemporary political rhetoric and cultural narratives, we explore the Bible Belt's association with conservative values and white supremacy, and the ongoing relevance of the Bible Belt in understanding America's evolving identity and the challenges posed by its enduring stereotypes.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Dr. Megan Hunt, a cultural historian of the modern United States at Edinburgh University, whose new book, Southern by the Grace of God, is available

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The Bible Belt is a term that originated in the 1920s, symbolizing a religiously devout region in America.
    • Historically, the Bible Belt is associated with evangelical Christianity, particularly in the Southern United States.
    • Contemporary politics often leverage the concept of the Bible Belt to appeal to religious values.
    • The notion of the Bible Belt helps to perpetuate stereotypes about the South and its culture.
    • Migration patterns have spread the values of the Bible Belt beyond its traditional geographical boundaries.
    • Hollywood's portrayal of religion in the South often simplifies and distorts the complexity of local culture.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Southern by the Grace of God by Megan Hunt

    https://www.dukeupress.edu/reconstructing-dixie

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States

    Is America an Empire?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    1 December 2024, 2:00 am
  • 14 minutes 8 seconds
    BONUS: How Growing Up in the Projects Shaped My Views on Poverty

    Homelessness is a complex issue, and approaches to tackling it vary significantly across political lines, as our guest Dr. Becky Avila-Knox explains in this bonus episode, recorded immediately after our episode What Are the Projects?

    Becky highlights the importance of recognizing external factors that contribute to homelessness, such as systemic discrimination and economic challenges, rather than attributing it solely to individual choices. The conversation also delves into personal experiences, illustrating how growing up in the projects has shaped her perspective on poverty and resilience. Listeners will gain insight into the societal stigmas surrounding homelessness and the necessity for community support and understanding to create lasting change.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Dr. Becky Avila-Knox, the Senior Director of Grants & Contracts for Safe Place for Youth, a US organisation on a mission to empower young people experiencing homelessness.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The discussion highlights how homelessness is often viewed through differing political lenses, impacting funding and support.
    • Becky emphasizes the importance of understanding homelessness as a systemic issue rather than one solely based on individual choices.
    • There are contrasting approaches to homelessness among political parties that reflect deeper societal beliefs about personal responsibility.
    • Relocating homeless individuals to cheaper areas does not address the underlying issues they face in their communities.
    • Becky shares her personal experiences growing up in the projects, highlighting resilience amidst adversity and the importance of community support.
    • The conversation underscores the need for compassion and systemic change to address homelessness effectively.

    ...

    Check out Becky's full episode here:

    What Are the Projects?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    30 November 2024, 2:00 am
  • 13 minutes 12 seconds
    BONUS: The Legacy of Sand Creek: Racism, War, and Cultural Extermination

    In this special bonus episode, we continue our conversation from the recent episode What Was the Sand Creek Massacre? and dive deeper into its broader implications for Native American history and relations with the U.S. government.

    We discuss recent developments, including President Biden's historic apology for the government's role in cultural genocide through boarding schools, raising questions about the sincerity of recognition and the tangible actions needed to improve the situation for Native peoples today.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia, with an interest in the American West, immigration and Americanisation.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The Sand Creek Massacre illustrates the violent and systematic oppression of Native Americans in U.S. history.
    • The Civil War did not halt the government's aggressive policies towards Native American communities.
    • President Biden's recent apology acknowledges the historic injustices faced by Native Americans, particularly in schools.
    • Cultural extermination was often framed as a form of kindness towards Native Americans by settlers.
    • The historical perspective reveals that Native Americans were seen as obstacles to American progress.
    • Discussions about Native American rights today must address both historical grievances and future actions.

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    Who Are Native Americans?

    How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?

    What is Thanksgiving?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    26 November 2024, 2:30 am
  • 36 minutes 35 seconds
    What Was the Sand Creek Massacre?

    The Sand Creek Massacre stands as one of the most horrific events in American military history, where hundreds of U.S. army volunteers attacked a peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho village, resulting in the deaths of approximately 150 to 200 individuals, primarily women, children, and the elderly.

    This brutal act highlights the broader context of settler colonialism and the U.S. government's broken treaties with Native American tribes during a time of rapid westward expansion driven by the discovery of gold. Colonel John Chivington, who led the attack, justified this atrocity through a deep-seated hatred for Native peoples, viewing them as obstacles to progress.

    This episode, on the week of Sand Creek's 160th anniversary, we explore the motivations behind such violence and the societal acceptance of these actions, revealing a historical pattern of displacement and brutality towards Indigenous communities, examining the aftermath and evolving perceptions of the massacre, and the ongoing struggles of Native Americans and the complexities of their relationship with the U.S. government.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia, with an interest in the American West, immigration and Americanisation.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The Sand Creek Massacre marked a tragic event in American history, highlighting the brutality faced by Indigenous peoples.
    • Colonel John Chivington led a volunteer army to attack a peaceful Cheyenne village, resulting in numerous deaths.
    • The massacre involved the murder of mostly women, children, and the elderly, showcasing extreme violence.
    • Chivington's actions were driven by a deep-seated hatred towards Native Americans, reflecting broader societal views.
    • Despite initial support for Chivington, public perception shifted as evidence of the massacre surfaced.
    • The Sand Creek Massacre exemplifies the long history of broken treaties and unjust treatment of Native nations in America.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Remembering the US soldiers who refused orders to murder Native Americans at Sand Creek (theconversation.com)

    The Sand Creek Massacre 1864 - Defeat and demise of the Native Americans of the Plains - National 5 History Revision - BBC Bitesize

    Native American History Timeline

    Cochise: The Legendary Apache Leader Who Fought For His Tribe's Freedom (allthatsinteresting.com)

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    Who Are Native Americans?

    How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?

    What is Thanksgiving?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    24 November 2024, 2:00 am
  • 12 minutes 7 seconds
    BONUS: Is Country Music a 'Mongrel' Genre?

    As the music industry reflects on the recent CMA Awards, here's a conversation we had with John Collins from CountryLine Radio, just after our previous episode of the podcast, What Makes Country Music So American?

    John argues that country music, much like the United States itself, is a "mongrel form" influenced by various cultures and musical traditions, and highlights how country music has evolved from gospel, rock, and R&B, reflecting the rich tapestry of influences from immigrant communities throughout American history.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:


    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • Country music is a reflection of America's immigrant nature, blending diverse musical influences.
    • The genre's appeal persists as it remains open to international influences and new styles.
    • Artists like Beyoncé and Lana Del Rey show that country music is becoming popular among mainstream stars.
    • Traditional country artists coexist with newer influences, creating a dynamic and evolving genre.
    • Country music's roots are deeply intertwined with various genres, including blues and gospel.
    • The genre is characterized by storytelling that resonates uniquely, setting it apart from others.

    ...

    Listen to John's full episode of the podcast:

    What Makes Country Music So American?

    ...

    And if you like this episode, you might also love:

    What Makes Country Music so American?

    Are the Oscars Still Relevant?

    Why Does Everyone Love Disney?

    Could Friends BE Any Bigger?

    How Accurate is Forrest Gump?

    ...

    Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:


    Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!

    Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

    23 November 2024, 2:00 am
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