America: A History Podcast

Liam Heffernan

  • 45 minutes 38 seconds
    How Has the Internet Shaped American Politics?

    This week, following an election cycle dominated by misinformation, AI, social media, and a… well, strange blossoming relationship between a Silicon Valley billionaire and the 47th President, I think it’s time to look closer at the relationship between technology and politics. How has social media impacted US politics? How is this being regulated? And ultimately, how has the internet changed American politics?

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a Professor in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. She is former president of the Association of Internet Researchers, and she is author of the widely-acclaimed book Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • In this episode, we explored the complex relationship between technology and politics, particularly focusing on social media's influence in shaping political narratives and public opinion.
    • Jennifer Stroma Galley shared insights on how social media platforms, especially during election cycles, have become battlegrounds for misinformation and targeted political advertising.
    • We discussed the impact of tech giants like Elon Musk and their affiliations with political candidates, raising questions about the ethical implications of such relationships.
    • The episode delves into the evolution of political fundraising through social media, highlighting how candidates like Trump have mastered the art of leveraging online platforms for financial support.
    • We highlighted the importance of media literacy in today's information age, as the cacophony of voices online makes it challenging for individuals to discern fact from fiction.
    • Listeners were reminded that while social media can empower grassroots movements, it also poses risks of misinformation and ideological echo chambers that can threaten democratic processes

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age by Jennifer Stromer-Galley

    Jennifer Stromer-Galley - iSchool | Syracuse University

    Social Media: Are TikTok videos the way to win an election? - BBC News

    12 States With Teens' Social Media Regulation- Is Yours One of Them?

    Facebook, Cambridge Analytica scandal: Everything you need to know

    ...

    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:


    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 April 2025, 1:00 am
  • 13 minutes 12 seconds
    BONUS: Is Abraham Lincoln the Great Emancipator or Just Another Racist?

    In this special bonus episode, following our previous episode What is Emancipation?, we discuss the often overlooked issue of Abraham Lincoln's own prejudice, and how this changed over the course of the civil war.

    Plus, our guest discusses his own research on Sherman's March, and his upcoming biography on General Sherman himself.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Bennett Parten, an Assistant Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, and the author of ‘Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation’

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • Emancipation and Reconstruction are massive topics that deserve in-depth exploration and discussion.
    • Abraham Lincoln's complicated relationship with race reveals a man whose views evolved over time.
    • Lincoln's early beliefs included ideas of racial superiority and colonization, reflecting the prejudices of his era.
    • The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and how perspectives on figures like Lincoln can change.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation by Bennett Parten

    Emancipation Proclamation (1863) | National Archives

    ...

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

    Why Did America Ban Slavery?

    How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?

    Who is Frederick Douglass?

    What Does Kindred Tell Us About Plantation Life?

    Who is Harriet Tubman?

    ...

    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.

    29 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 37 minutes 38 seconds
    What is the History of Education in America?

    Ever wondered what American schools really look like beyond the glossy TV portrayals? Well, grab your backpack because we’re diving deep into the quirky, complex world of the U.S. education system!

    From the early dame schools of the 1600s to the well-oiled machinery of today’s public school system, our guest gives us the lowdown on how American education evolved. We chat about how local communities shaped schools, the rise of the federal government’s influence, and the tug of war between state and federal control.

    What’s the deal with that 10% of funding from Uncle Sam? And why do folks cling to local control like it's the last slice of pizza at a party? Spoiler alert: it’s all about community identity!

    And let’s not forget the elephant in the room—why does the U.S. rank 31st in education compared to other countries? We dig into how local pride can sometimes blind us to the need for improvement.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jonathan Zimmerman, a Professor of History of Education at the University of Pennsylvannia, and has a particular interest in how political and social movements shape education. He has also written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and others.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The American education system has evolved significantly since colonial times, with local communities playing a crucial role in shaping schools.
    • Federal involvement in education really kicked off with the establishment of the Department of Education under Jimmy Carter in the late 1970s.
    • Local control of schools can empower communities but may also lead to significant disparities in education quality across the country.
    • The No Child Left Behind Act mandated testing and accountability, but its execution often led to absurd outcomes, like inflated proficiency rates in certain states.
    • Extracurricular activities, from sports to drama clubs, are seen as integral to the American schooling experience and can enhance deeper learning.
    • American schools are not just about academics; they're community hubs where various social functions and services come together.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Education Rankings by Country 2024

    The difference between the Every Student Succeeds Act and No Child Left Behind

    Whose America?: Culture Wars in the Public Schools by Jonathan Zimmerman

    In Search of Deeper Learning: The Quest to Remake the American High School by Jal Mehta and Sarah Fine

    ...

    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:


    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.

    25 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 10 minutes 52 seconds
    BONUS: The Abortion Paradox in America

    In this special bonus episode, Professor Rebecca Fraser and Rev. Caleb Lines stick around for a chat following the main episode, Why is Abortion So Controversial in America, which you can listen to in full right now.

    They discuss the interesting contradiction in states largely voting for reproductive rights on the same day they re-elect Trump to the White House.

    Plus, Caleb discusses how he balances his life as a clergyman with his newfound fame as a social media influencer.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Rebecca Fraser, a professor of American history and culture at the University of East Anglia. Her research focuses on discourses of gender, race, and sexuality, particularly in 19th century America.
    • Rev. Caleb Lines, the Senior Minister of University Christian Church in San Diego, the Co-Executive Director of ProgressiveChristianity.org, and the Co-Host for The Moonshine Jesus Show.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • In the podcast, we explored the surprising contradiction between political trends and voter preferences regarding reproductive rights in America.
    • Despite the election of a conservative president, many voters actually supported measures to protect reproductive rights in various states.
    • The discussion highlighted how generational perspectives on reproductive rights can influence voting behavior and community support systems.
    • It's essential to recognize that people's daily struggles, like paying rent, often overshadow their concerns about abortion rights and reproductive health.
    • We also touched on the importance of women's networks in supporting reproductive choices and how these networks can empower future generations.
    • Lastly, we discussed how the rhetoric surrounding reproductive health often conflicts with the actual beliefs of the majority of people in the country.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    READ: Abortion: What does overturn of Roe v Wade mean? - BBC News

    READ: Caleb Lines Website

    WATCH: Why Do Religious Groups Care About Abortion? - Caleb Lines via TikTok

    READ: 10 States Put Abortion Rights on the Ballot This Year. 7 Voted to Enshrine Protections 

    LISTEN: The Moonshine Jesus Show

    READ: Analysis: How Abortion Rights Are Linked to Gender Equality | Best States | U.S. News

    ...

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

    What Do We Get Wrong About the Civil Rights Movement?

    What Challenge Does Black Lives Matter Present to America?

    What is the Civil Rights Act?

    ...

    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 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 31 minutes 57 seconds
    What is Emancipation?

    This week, we're diving into one of the biggest game-changers in American history: the Emancipation Proclamation.

    On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared all enslaved people in rebellious states to be free, and while it sounds like a happy ending, the reality is a whole lot more complicated. After all, emancipation and freedom are two very different things.

    So what does it actually mean? What were the implications? And what really changed? In this episode, I’m going to find out… what is emancipation?

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Bennett Parten, an Assistant Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, and the author of ‘Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation’

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • On New Year's Day in 1863, Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation declared freedom for enslaved people in rebellious states, a pivotal moment in American history.
    • Emancipation was not a singular event but evolved through various stages during the Civil War, starting with acts of Congress in 1861 and culminating in the 13th Amendment.
    • While emancipation legally freed enslaved individuals, the actual meaning of freedom was complex and continued to evolve during Reconstruction and beyond.
    • Lincoln's decision to emancipate slaves was as much about strategic war efforts against the Confederacy as it was about moral advocacy for human rights.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation by Bennett Parten

    Emancipation Proclamation (1863) | National Archives

    ...

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

    Why Did America Ban Slavery?

    How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?

    Who is Frederick Douglass?

    What Does Kindred Tell Us About Plantation Life?

    Who is Harriet Tubman?

    ...

    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.

    18 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 7 minutes 49 seconds
    BONUS: Is Calvin Coolidge America's Quietest Overachiever?

    Today, we're discussing President Calvin Coolidge a little more and why his general mid-table ranking among Presidents might be a harsh reflection of his success as America's 30th President.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Amity Shlaes, the author of four New York Times bestsellers, including Coolidge, a full-length biography of the thirtieth president. She now chairs the board of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, a national foundation based at the birthplace of President Coolidge.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • Calvin Coolidge, often overlooked in history classes, was a surprisingly impactful president who deserves more recognition.
    • Despite the challenges of his time, Coolidge successfully stabilized the economy and fostered growth through his deliberate policies.
    • Coolidge's immigration stance was complex; he supported restrictions but was not motivated by bigotry, which was quite progressive for his era.
    • The podcast discusses how presidential rankings can be misleading, as one president's rise often means another's fall in public perception.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    READ: The Coolidge Foundation

    READ: Coolidge by Amity Shlaes

    LISTEN: Calvin Coolidge: A tale of two - Presidential - Apple Podcasts

    LISTEN: 1924, Coolidge vs. Davis vs. L - American Elections: Wicked Game - Apple Podcasts

    READ: Calvin Coolidge: Life Before the Presidency | Miller Center

    ...

    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:


    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 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 53 minutes 53 seconds
    Why is Abortion So Controversial in America?

    This week, as one of the most conservative administrations in recent times settle into the White House, concern grows on the left around what this means for reproductive rights. The overturning of Roe v Wade, back in June 2022, was a seismic decision by the Supreme Court, and one that has made abortion one of the most important and divisive issues in the United States, but why?

    I’m joined by the brilliant Rebecca Fraser, a historian with a keen focus on gender and race, and the insightful Reverend Caleb Lines, who’s made waves on social media for his candid takes on such hot-button topics. Together, we’ll explore the historical context of abortion, the tangled relationship between politics and religion, and how these factors shape current debates.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Rebecca Fraser, a professor of American history and culture at the University of East Anglia. Her research focuses on discourses of gender, race, and sexuality, particularly in 19th century America.
    • Rev. Caleb Lines, the Senior Minister of University Christian Church in San Diego, the Co-Executive Director of ProgressiveChristianity.org, and the Co-Host for The Moonshine Jesus Show.

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • The recent political climate has intensified concerns about reproductive rights in America, especially after the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
    • Understanding the historical context of abortion reveals that it's been a contentious issue influenced by various social and political factors over the decades.
    • The podcast dives into how different interpretations of Christianity shape attitudes towards abortion, highlighting the clash between progressive and fundamentalist views.
    • Economic factors play a crucial role in the abortion debate, as many women seeking abortions do so due to financial constraints and lack of support for raising children.
    • The episode emphasizes that pro-choice advocates are not pro-abortion; they advocate for women's right to choose based on individual circumstances and needs.
    • The conversation touches on the intersection of patriarchy and reproductive rights, questioning whether abortion would be as controversial if it primarily affected men.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    READ: Abortion: What does overturn of Roe v Wade mean? - BBC News

    READ: Caleb Lines Website

    WATCH: Why Do Religious Groups Care About Abortion? - Caleb Lines via TikTok

    READ: 10 States Put Abortion Rights on the Ballot This Year. 7 Voted to Enshrine Protections 

    LISTEN: The Moonshine Jesus Show

    READ: Analysis: How Abortion Rights Are Linked to Gender Equality | Best States | U.S. News

    ...

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

    What Do We Get Wrong About the Civil Rights Movement?

    What Challenge Does Black Lives Matter Present to America?

    What is the Civil Rights Act?

    ...

    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.

    11 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 8 minutes 40 seconds
    BONUS: Drill, Baby, Drill! The Impact of Trump's Agenda on Native Lands

    In this week's bonus episode, we’re diving into the impact of American Indian Boarding Schools and the ongoing challenges faced by Native communities in light of recent political shifts.

    It’s a real gut-wrencher, but we’re here with Jacqueline Fierce Siegel about the fallout from these schools and the alarming direction some policies are taking under the current administration. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot of concern in Indian country about how these changes might affect sovereignty and rights.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • This bonus episode dives deep into the impact of American Indian Boarding Schools, a truly heartbreaking chapter in history.
    • We had an enlightening discussion with Jacqueline Fierce Siegel about the alarming political climate for Native American communities.
    • The episode emphasizes the ongoing struggles for sovereignty and rights faced by Native Americans in today's political landscape.
    • Listeners are encouraged to explore more about Native American history and its implications in contemporary society.
    • The conversation touches on the surprising political choices of some Native Americans during recent elections and its complex implications.
    • The discussion highlights the urgent need for respect towards Native communities and their resources, especially under current environmental policies.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Forced assimilation and abuse: How US boarding schools devastated Native American tribes | News | cherokeephoenix.org

    Biden apologizes to Native Americans for abusive government-funded boarding schools | CNN Politics

    The U.S. history of Native American Boarding Schools — The Indigenous Foundation

    Historian: American Indian Boarding Schools and Their Impact | TIME

    ...

    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.

    8 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 53 minutes 11 seconds
    Who is Calvin Coolidge?

    On this day 100 years ago, a Presidential inauguration was broadcast on national radio for the first time. Having inherited the White House from Warren G. Harding three years into his Vice Presidential career, the thirtieth President of the United States arrived amidst scandal and left behind a Great Depression. But was he popular? Was he successful? And why didn’t he run for a second full term? In this episode, I’m asking… who is President Calvin Coolidge?

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Amity Shlaes, the author of four New York Times bestsellers, including Coolidge, a full-length biography of the thirtieth president. She now chairs the board of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, a national foundation based at the birthplace of President Coolidge.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    READ: The Coolidge Foundation

    READ: Coolidge by Amity Shlaes

    LISTEN: Calvin Coolidge: A tale of two - Presidential - Apple Podcasts

    LISTEN: 1924, Coolidge vs. Davis vs. L - American Elections: Wicked Game - Apple Podcasts

    READ: Calvin Coolidge: Life Before the Presidency | Miller Center

    ...

    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:


    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.

    4 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 8 minutes 10 seconds
    BONUS: Talk Until You Drop - The Wild World of Filibusters

    In this bonus episode following the main recording of What is a Filibuster? Liam and special guest Gregory Koger continue their discussion on the history of filibuster's, including its British origins and the role they played in the Civil Rights Act.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Gregory Koger, a professor of political science at the University of Miami, who specializes in legislative politics and political parties and author of the book Filibustering: A Political History of Obstruction in the House and Senate

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • Filibusters can be a complex political tool, not just a stubborn roadblock to legislation. They serve a purpose in forcing issues onto the agenda, showcasing their strategic use in U.S. politics.
    • The history of filibustering dates back to the 19th century, with early examples even found in the UK Parliament, illustrating that this isn't just a U.S. phenomenon.
    • Negotiating under pressure is crucial in politics, and filibusters often create that necessary urgency for lawmakers to reach agreements.
    • Filibusters can sometimes prevent disastrous outcomes, such as a government default, highlighting their importance in legislative processes.
    • The role of filibusters in campaign finance reform discussions in the 1990s demonstrates how they can bring critical issues to the forefront, ultimately leading to significant legislation.
    • Understanding filibusters enriches our perspective on political maneuvering, revealing how they can be leveraged for both obstruction and progress in legislative debates.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Filibustering: A Political History of Obstruction in the House and Senate by Greg Koger

    U.S. Senate: About Filibusters and Cloture

    10 Wildest Filibusters In History - Listverse

    How The Filibuster Has Been Used To Block Civil Rights Progress | NBC News NOW

    The filibuster has been a thorn in Democrats' side. Now it's their last hope - Fast Company

    Filibuster Reform - Center for Effective Government

    ...

    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:


    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 March 2025, 4:00 am
  • 35 minutes 26 seconds
    What Were Native American Boarding Schools?

    This week, we’re diving deep into what President Joe Biden called “one of the worst chapters in American history” — the Native American boarding schools.

    These institutions, which operated for over a century, were designed with the aim of systematically stripping away the cultures and identities of Native American children, often through brutal means.

    Trust me, it's not going to be a light chat; we’re tackling some heavy topics that might leave you feeling a bit uneasy. However, it’s super important to understand the history behind these schools and the devastating impact they had on entire communities.

    ...

    Special guest for this episode:

    • Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia

    ...

    Highlights from this episode:

    • This episode explores the dark history of Native American boarding schools, highlighting their role in systematic abuse.
    • Over 500 boarding schools were established across the United States, aimed at assimilating Native children into white culture.
    • The boarding school system was not just about education, but involved severe cultural suppression and trauma for generations.
    • Despite the oppressive past, Native communities today are showing remarkable resilience and a revival of their cultural identities.

    ...

    Additional Resources:

    Forced assimilation and abuse: How US boarding schools devastated Native American tribes | News | cherokeephoenix.org

    Biden apologizes to Native Americans for abusive government-funded boarding schools | CNN Politics

    The U.S. history of Native American Boarding Schools — The Indigenous Foundation

    Historian: American Indian Boarding Schools and Their Impact | TIME

    ...

    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.

    25 February 2025, 4:00 am
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