In the latest episode of America: A History in the Making, we dive into the aftermath of the recent election, exploring the notable absence of allegations regarding electoral fraud compared to previous years.

We also analyze Trump's controversial appointments and the potential ideological shifts in U.S. policy, particularly concerning immigration and foreign relations, and the evolving dynamics between the U.S. and Russia, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the political maneuvering surrounding American support for Ukraine.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Dafydd Townley, a teaching fellow at the University of Portsmouth, whose research interests include the US presidency, particularly in relation to US national security policy

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The 2023 election demonstrated a surprisingly straightforward outcome, reducing claims of electoral fraud compared to previous years.
• Dafydd Townley discusses how the Republican Party's victory influenced the acceptance of election results by Democrats.
• Trump's appointments reflect his transactional approach to politics, prioritizing loyalty over broader governance issues.
• The implications of Trump's foreign policy could shift towards isolationism, impacting global alliances and conflicts.
• Concerns arise that Ukraine may become a political pawn in U.S. domestic power struggles post-election.
• The discussion highlights the tension between national security interests and diplomatic relations under Trump's administration.

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan?

How to Run a Democratic Election: Part II

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

Christopher Columbus, often credited with discovering America, is a complex historical figure whose legacy prompts significant debate.

While he embarked on his voyages seeking a route to India, he stumbled upon the Caribbean, never realizing he had encountered a new continent, and in this episode, we dive into Columbus' life, exploring his motivations, struggles, and the darker aspects of his expeditions, including the exploitation of indigenous peoples.

We also examines the evolving perception of Columbus in contemporary society, particularly regarding the implications of celebrating figures with controversial legacies.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Laurence Bergreen, an award-winning biographer, historian, and chronicler of exploration. His books include Columbus: The Four Voyages

...

Highlights from this episode:

• Christopher Columbus, often credited with discovering America, was actually an Italian explorer.
• His voyages occurred in a time of great uncertainty, lacking modern navigational tools and knowledge.
• Columbus's legacy is complex, as he both opened new trade routes and contributed to exploitation.
• Historical perspectives on Columbus have shifted, reflecting changing views on exploration and colonialism.
• The concept of 'discovery' is problematic, as America was already inhabited by diverse cultures.
• Columbus never set foot on mainland America and was looking for India instead.

...

Additional Resources:

LISTEN: Columbus: The Four Voyages by Laurence Bergreen

READ: Why Columbus Day Is Worth Defending and Celebrating | Discovery Institute

READ: Should the United States Celebrate Columbus Day? - The New York Times

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

In this special bonus episode, recorded before the 2024 Presidential election, we explore the significant implications of the June 2024 presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, which many believe marked a turning point in the election.

We discuss the emotional and political ramifications of Biden's struggles and the broader historical context of debates in shaping public perception of candidates, and how the dynamics of this debate may influence voter turnout and the overall electoral landscape.

The consequences of this debate highlight the ongoing impact of American presidential elections on the global stage, emphasizing the importance of both presidential and congressional outcomes in shaping international relations.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The June 2024 debate between Biden and Trump was seen as an absolute disaster for Biden.
• Emma Long expressed that Biden's performance was painful to watch, highlighting his struggles.
• The aftermath of the debate led to a shift in Democratic support away from Biden.
• Biden's long political career may be viewed more positively in the future despite recent challenges.
• The debate significantly altered the dynamics of the 2024 election, impacting voter enthusiasm.
• International interest in the U.S. presidential debates reflects America's ongoing global influence.

...

Listen to the full episode here:

Who Cares About Presidential Debates: https://pod.fo/e/267a2b

...

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

What Was the Constitutional Convention?

Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms?

Is the President Above the Law?

How Are Presidents Elected?

What is the US Constitution?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

This podcast episode features a deep discussion on the recent presidential election and the implications of Kamala Harris's campaign performance. Ian and Farida Jalalzai analyze the complexities surrounding female voters, noting that 53% of women supported Donald Trump, raising questions about the intersection of gender and economic concerns in voting behavior. They explore the tactical missteps of the Harris campaign and how the dynamics of gender and race influenced the election outcomes. The conversation also delves into the troubling reality of Trump's ability to defy political norms and the potential consequences for American democracy as he returns to power. Throughout the episode, they reflect on the future of the Democratic Party and the challenges it faces moving forward.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Farida Jalalzai, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives and Engagement in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, and Professor of Political Science at Virginia Tech.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The podcast explores the implications of the recent presidential election and the challenges faced by the Harris campaign.
• Farida Jalalzai discusses the importance of understanding the gender gap in voting behavior among different demographics.
• Trump's ability to appeal to voters despite his controversial past raises questions about American political norms.
• The conversation emphasizes the need for Democrats to reevaluate their strategies in light of the election results.
• There is a focus on the potential consequences of Trump's re-election on American democracy and governance.
• Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how political empathy has shifted during the Trump era.

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

The transition period following a presidential election is a critical yet often overlooked phase in American politics, so in this episode we explore the intricate processes and protocols that occur in the two months between the election and the inauguration of a new president.

We discuss the historical evolution of the transition, its additional complexity with the growth of the executive branch, and the introduction of formal transition teams. We also look at the implications of party changes during transitions and the importance of maintaining governmental continuity, reflecting on recent political events, the 2020 election and Jan 6th, and the significance of cooperation between outgoing and incoming administrations to uphold democratic traditions.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The transition period between presidential elections is often overlooked but is crucial for governance.
• Historically, the transition period has shortened from four months to just two months.
• The Presidential Transition Act of 1963 mandates preparation for an incoming administration.
• Civil servants play a vital role during transitions, providing continuity in government operations.
• The process of transition can vary significantly depending on whether parties change hands.
• Former presidents often maintain a low profile post-office to respect the new administration's authority.

...

Additional Resources:

The US Elections Explained: The Transition of Power - YouTube

2024 Transition Timeline • Center for Presidential Transition

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

A recent poll suggests that 72% of Americans believe the US used to be a good example of democracy but has not been for the past few years.

In this special live event, recorded at the University of East Anglia's Norwich campus in England, a group of experts on the US come together to discuss the recent election, the political and historical context, the result, and what it all means for the state of American democracy today and in the future.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Prof. Rebecca Fraser, Professor of American History & Culture, School of Politics, Philosophy and Area Studies. Her research is primarily concerned with the ways in which discourses of gender, race and sexuality were articulated and interacted in the context of nineteenth century America.
• Prof. Toby James, Professor of Politics & Public Policy, School of Politics, Philosophy and Area Studies. Toby’s research focuses on the electoral integrity and democracy, the policy process and political leadership.
• Dr. Suzanne Doyle, Lecturer in International Relations, School of Politics, Philosophy and Area Studies. Suzanne's research focuses on the US-UK nuclear relationship. Her wider research interests include nuclear history, transatlantic relations, US and British defence policy, security studies and the Cold War.
• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor in American History and Politics, School of Politics, Philosophy and Area Studies. She specialises in the history of the US Constitution and the Supreme Court, with a particular focus on the period since 1945 and on the rights contained in the Bill of Rights

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The importance of understanding the diverse definitions of democracy in the U.S. context.
• Voter ID laws and their impact on voter accessibility are critical to election fairness.
• Historical precedents of women candidates highlight ongoing challenges in American politics.
• The influence of social media and misinformation on voter behavior is increasingly significant.
• Economic factors are central to voters' decisions, overshadowing issues of race and gender.
• Trump's presidency poses existential questions about the future of American democracy.

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

In this special episode of America: A History in the Making, the day after the 2024 U.S. election, we bring reactions, insights, and reflections from a diverse group of American voters discussing one of the most unpredictable elections in American history.

The conversation highlights a stark realization: despite a highly qualified candidate in Kamala Harris, many voters gravitated towards Trump, revealing deep-seated issues of racism, misogyny, and the complexities of identity politics. Our guests, from opposite coasts of the US, share experiences from their regions, particularly in red pockets of California, emphasizing feelings of voter apathy and the disconnect between individual lived experiences and broader electoral trends.

The discussion also touches on the challenges ahead for the Democratic Party, including the need for more effective communication and unity to counter the growing influence of fear-driven politics.

As fears mount for the future, the group expresses a mix of hope and trepidation about the implications of a Trump presidency on marginalized communities and the political landscape in America.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Felicia from Massachusetts, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Inclusion Geeks and host of the She+ Geeks Out Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/she-geeks-out-podcast/id1128497037
• Katie from Massachusetts, and host of The Weeniecast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-weeniecast-make-more-money-create-an-impact/id1645672394
• Shannon and Nathan, a couple and two fans of the podcast from a red town within the very blue California.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The impact of the 2024 US election results has left many feeling anxious and uncertain about the future.
• Voter apathy in California is a real concern, especially among Democratic voters who feel their votes don't count.
• The internalized biases and systemic racism in America are reflected in the voting patterns of marginalized groups.
• Kamala Harris's identities were not leveraged effectively in her campaign against Trump.
• The political landscape has shifted significantly, and the Democrat party needs to adapt to win again.
• Concerns about the potential for increased political violence and a divided America loom large after the election results.

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

In this extra bonus, following on from a previous main episode, we delve into the prospects of Kamala Harris winning the presidency and the broader implications for women and candidates of color in American politics.

Special guest Farida Jalalzai shares her insights on Harris' current campaign dynamics, highlighting both the enthusiasm surrounding her candidacy and the criticisms regarding the perceived lack of policy substance. Plus, we touche on the unique challenges Harris faces as a woman and a person of color, including the heightened scrutiny she may encounter compared to her male counterparts.

We also discuss the impact of upcoming debates (as this episode was recorded before the Harris - Trump debate), particularly how Harris' performance could shape public perceptions and expectations for future female candidates.

...

Special guest:

•  Farida Jalalzai, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives and Engagement in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, and Professor of Political Science at Virginia Tech.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• Kamala Harris's chances of winning the presidential election appear favorable due to her support.
• Debates will be crucial for Harris to showcase her policy details against Trump.
• Trump's debate strategy may rely on attacking the perceived unfairness of the questions.
• Harris has a unique challenge in navigating gender dynamics while campaigning against Trump.
• The historical context of women and women of color in leadership raises expectations for Harris.
• Criticism of Harris's campaign often reflects biases in how women's leadership is perceived.

...

Listen to the main episode:

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

As the US election approaches, this special episode looks at the experiences of first time American voters casting their ballots from abroad, highlighting the unique challenges they face.

Guests Henry and McKenna, both students on an exchange semester at UEA in the UK, share their insights on the registration process and the emotional weight of participating in their first presidential election. We discuss the polarized political landscape, how younger voters perceive Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, and the importance of engaging Gen Z in the electoral process.

...

Special guests for this episode:

• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia
• McKenna Anderson, a political science student studying at UEA, from Illinois
• Henry Lease, a political science student studying at UEA, from Massachusetts

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The podcast discusses the challenges and experiences of American students voting from abroad.
• Both Henry and McKenna emphasize the importance of registering to vote while living overseas.
• Listeners are encouraged to understand the complexities of state-level voting processes in the U.S.
• The conversation highlights a significant generational shift in political engagement among young voters.
• Emma Long raises the point about the impact of undecided voters on the election outcome.
• The episode reflects on how international perspectives can shape American political discussions. 

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

On Tuesday November 5th 2024, millions of Americans will decide who moves into the White House for the next four years: former President Donald Trump, or incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. This election cycle has been like no other, and the outcome will set the course of America's future.

In the first of our two-part deep dive into the U.S. electoral process, this week’s episode explores the American election - how it's organised, how they ensure accuracy and efficiency, how it could be improved, and the challenges of running a ballot for over 300 million people.

This episode sets the stage for a broader discussion on electoral fairness and representation, in part two of this US election 2024 special, which supporters of the show can access right away.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia. Welcome back Emma…
• Professor Iwan Morgan, an emeritus professor of US Studies at University College London, and an expert on the US Presidency. His most recent books are ‘Reagan: American Icon’ and ‘FDR: Transforming the Presidency and Renewing America’.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The U.S. election process consists of two main parts: the primary season and the general election, each with distinct roles.
• Elections in the United States are organized at the state level, resulting in 51 individual elections across the nation.
• Voters in America do not directly elect the President but vote for electors who comprise the Electoral College.
• The dominance of the two-party system in the U.S. is partly due to structural electoral barriers against third-party candidates.
• Campaign financing has become increasingly influenced by private donations, complicating fair election practices.
• The Citizens United ruling has allowed significant spending by outside groups, raising concerns about equality in elections. 

...

Additional Resources:

WEBSITE: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z9d43j6

BOOK: Reagan: American Icon by Iwan Morgan

BOOK: FDR: Transforming the Presidency and Renewing America

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.

In the second part of our US election special, we dive into the complexity and intricacies surrounding the U.S. electoral process, particularly as the nation approaches a pivotal presidential election.

Special guests Dr. Emma Long and Daffy Townley engage in an exploration of the mechanisms that uphold the integrity, fairness, and inclusivity of elections, beginning with the principles of democratic elections, emphasizing the necessity for representation and transparency while dissecting the role of technology in contemporary electoral campaigns.

We also address the looming specter of election interference, citing historical instances such as the 2016 and 2020 elections, and the ongoing threats faced in the upcoming 2024 election, and the impact misinformation and disinformation campaigns—both domestic and foreign—can have in undermining voter confidence, and affecting the democratic process.

...

Special guest for this episode:

• Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia. Welcome back Emma…
• Dr. Dafydd Townley, a teaching fellow at the University of Portsmouth, whose research interests include the US presidency, particularly in relation to US national security policy, and how cybersecurity can be used as a tool for diplomacy.

...

Highlights from this episode:

• The integrity of elections in the US is threatened by misinformation and disinformation campaigns.
• Electoral processes vary significantly by state, affecting voter registration and participation rates.
• Youth engagement in politics has increased, but not all demographics are equally reached.
• Election interference can undermine public confidence in the fairness of the electoral process.
• The complexity of voting regulations can disenfranchise minority groups and lower-income individuals.
• Technological solutions for voting could introduce new vulnerabilities, affecting election integrity.

...

Additional Resources:

https://constitutioncenter.org/education/election-resources

...

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

Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?

Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?

What is a Primary and a Caucus?

Who is Ron DeSantis?

How Are Presidents Elected?

...

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:

• Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
• Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info

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.