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America: A History Podcast
Liam Heffernan
- 42 minutes 55 secondsWhat is the History of Hawai'i?
In this milestone 50th episode of the main podcast, we delve into the complex history of Hawai'i, exploring its journey from an independent kingdom to becoming the 50th state of the United States in 1959.
We discuss the significant cultural, political, and economic changes that have shaped Hawaii's identity over the years, including the impact of American missionaries, the sugar industry, and military interests, as well as Hawaiian identity and sovereignty, particularly in the context of ongoing debates about representation and cultural preservation.
We also addresses the challenges faced by native Hawaiians in a rapidly commercialized and tourist-driven economy, the multifaceted relationship between Hawaii and the United States, and the unique position Hawaii holds within the broader American narrative.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Henry Knight Lozano, an American Studies scholar and US historian from the University of Exeter, whose work focuses on the United States' tropical and semi-tropical frontiers of California, Florida, and Hawai'i.
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Highlights from this episode:
- Hawaii's history as a unified kingdom predates its annexation by the United States.
- The introduction of American missionaries in Hawaii had profound cultural and political impacts.
- The 1893 coup against Queen Liliuokalani marked a significant turning point in Hawaiian sovereignty.
- Hawaii's statehood in 1959 followed decades of complex political and cultural negotiations.
- The rise of tourism in Hawaii post-statehood has led to economic growth but cultural tensions.
- Native Hawaiians often express a distinct identity separate from American citizenship, reflecting ongoing issues.
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Additional Resources:
BOOK: California and Hawai'i Bound: U.S. Settler Colonialism and the Pacific West, 1848-1959 by Henry Knight Lozano
WEBSITE:Asa Thurston via FamousAmericans.net
WEBSITE: Mālama ʻĀina: Hawaii's Environmental Legacy via KonaCloudForest.com
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States
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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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
15 October 2024, 1:00 am - 38 minutes 32 secondsWhat is Medicare?
Medicare, a national health insurance program for individuals over 65, has been a pivotal part of American social policy since its inception in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Despite its significance, the program remains a contentious topic in U.S. politics, often debated in the context of broader healthcare reforms and federal tax implications.
In this episode we explore what Medicare covers, how it operates, and the reasons behind its divisive nature, delving into its historical roots and the political struggles that led to its establishment. We also discuss the program's evolution, its impact on the healthcare system, and the ongoing ideological battles surrounding it.
As the U.S. approaches another election cycle, understanding Medicare's role and the varying perceptions of its value is crucial for navigating the future of healthcare in America.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Keith A. Wailoo, a professor of history and public affairs, also at Princeton. He is formerly Vice Dean of the School of Public and International Affairs, and former President of the American Association for the History of Medicine. His research straddles history and health policy, touching on drugs and drug policy, and the politics of race and health.
- Julian E. Zelitzer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University, who The History News Network named as one of the top young historians in the country. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of the revival of American political history
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Highlights from this episode:
- Medicare, created 59 years ago, is a pivotal program providing healthcare to seniors in the US.
- The program's funding comes from payroll taxes and general revenue, challenging the welfare program perception.
- Initially covering only the elderly, Medicare has expanded to include disabled individuals over time.
- Political resistance to Medicare stemmed from fears of socialized medicine and potential fiscal burdens.
- The ongoing debate around Medicare reflects deep ideological divides within American healthcare politics.
- Medicare's success has led to its acceptance across political lines, despite ongoing contention with Medicaid.
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Additional Resources:
BOOK: Medicare and Medicaid at 50: America's Entitlement Programs in the Age of Affordable Care
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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?
...
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
8 October 2024, 1:00 am - 33 minutes 19 secondsWhy Is Huck Finn Banned?
Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" continues to stir debate over a century after its publication, primarily due to its racial themes and language. In this episode, we delve into the book's historical context, examining its use of vernacular and portrayals of race.
The book continues to face scrutiny for its depiction of race and its frequent use of racial slurs, prompting calls for it to be removed from school curricula, so in this podcast we explore whether the book's controversial elements serve as a valuable critique of American society or if its language ultimately makes it unsuitable for educational settings.
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Special Guest:
- Thomas Ruys Smith, a Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of Area Studies at the University of East Anglia.
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Key Takeaways from this Episode:
- Huckleberry Finn remains controversial due to its use of racial language and depictions of race.
- The book was initially banned for its use of American slang and irreverent tone.
- Controversy around Huck Finn resurfaced during the Civil Rights Movement due to its racial themes.
- The complexity of Huck Finn's racial themes continues to spark debates about its place in education.
- Different interpretations of the book highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing race in America.
- The enduring relevance of Huck Finn is evidenced by contemporary adaptations and discussions.
- Decisions about teaching Huck Finn involve weighing its educational value against potential harm.
- The book's history of controversy reflects changing societal attitudes towards race and literature.
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Additional Resources:
BOOK: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
BOOK: James by Percival Everett
WEBSITE: BANNED: Adventures of Huckleberry Finn | American Experience | Official Site | PBS
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How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?
What Does Kindred Tell Us About Plantation Life?
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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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
1 October 2024, 1:00 am - 43 minutes 58 secondsWill America Ever Elect a Woman for President?
Since 1779, the United States have sworn in 46 Presidents. All very different - some democrat, some republican, even whigs, and federalists. Northern, southern, white, black, old, young. And each one has carved a different road to the White House, and left behind a unique legacy. But there is one common factor between them. All 46, without exception, are men. So in this episode, I want to know… will America ever elect a woman for President?
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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.
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Highlights from this episode:
(01:59) Is this a US or a global problem?
(08:51) A lack of women presidential candidates
(14:33) Women still defined by their relationship to men
(16:55) Would a successful Harris presidency mean a failing elsewhere?
(23:08) A lack of opportunities for women in politics
(28:32) Do women dress for the part?
(33:20) Changing perceptions of what makes a good leader
(38:07) Being a torch-bearer for others to follow
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Additional Resources:
ARTICLE: Why the US still hasn’t had a woman for President by Farida Jalalzai
ARTICLE: Jacinda Ardern’s resignation shows that women still face an uphill battle in politics – an expert on female leaders answers 5 key questions by Farida Jalalzai
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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?
...
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
24 September 2024, 1:00 am - 35 minutes 21 secondsWhat Makes Country Music So American?
This week we are donning our stetsons and grabbing a cold one, as we discuss the most rootin’ tootin’ American music genre of them all. From Dolly Parton to Taylor Swift with a little bit of Footloose, country has come to epitomise the US, but as the genre’s popularity booms internationally, does its Americanness still endure? So in this episode I’m asking… what makes country music so American?
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Special guest for this episode:
- John Collins, Head of Radio Operations at CountryLine Radio and, conveniently a huge fan of both country music and American culture.
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Highlights from this episode:
(03:10) A Brit and a Scot talking about country music...
(05:07) Breaking down the stigma
(08:41) Is country music still a white person genre?
(12:20) Earning your country chops
(15:43) US vs international appeal of country music
(20:06) Southern representations
(22:43) The biggest threat to the genre
(25:18) How to keep the country in country
(28:31) Women empowering women
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Additional Resources:
Cowboy Carter by Beyonce
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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?
...
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
17 September 2024, 1:00 am - 36 minutes 7 secondsITM 4: Debates, Dog Food, and Taylor Swift, Reaction to Harris vs Trump
If June 27th is remembered as the night that ended the Biden re-election campaign, then September 10th may just be remembered as the night that derailed Trump's.
It was memorable, it was full of talking points, and it may have just put the momentum firmly back in Harris' camp. So what exactly went down at the debate?
With reaction and insight to everything that happened, this is America: A History in the Making.
Special guest for this episode:
- Andrew Wroe, a Senior Lecturer in American Politics at the University of Kent
Additional Resources:
FiveThirtyEight National Polls
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?
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
11 September 2024, 1:00 am - 43 minutes 42 secondsWho Cares About Presidential Debates?
Presidential debates are a staple of the election cycle, but in recent years the drama of deciding who gets to host a debate and when can often be more exciting than the event itself. In a world where news is instant and everyone is connected, do they have the same impact and influence on elections as they once did? So in this episode, I want to know… who cares about Presidential debates?
Special guest for this episode:
- Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia.
Highlights from this episode:
(02:18) The first Presidential debate
(07:44) Behind every great President is a great First Lady
(09:45) How many millions watch the JFK / Nixon debate?!
(13:45) The Trump effect
(17:25) How has social media changed debate strategy?
(23:10) How much control do the parties have over debates?
(27:13) Are debates too boring?
(32:42) What lessons were learnt from the Biden / Trump debate?
(36:02) Why should candidates care about debates?
Additional Resources:
Commission on Presidential Debates
The American Presidency Project (includes transcripts of past debates)
C-SPAN – Presidential Debates (recordings of past debates)
Michael Socolow, “Think presidential debates are dull? Thank 1950s TV game shows”
Pew Research Center, “6 facts about presidential and vice presidential debates”
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?
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
10 September 2024, 2:00 am - 45 minutes 55 secondsWhat Are the Projects?
In Britain, council estates are a standard part of the housing ecosystem. That is, government-built housing for those who lack the means to house themselves.
But the US also has a long-standing public housing system, used by millions, but the challenges are unique and, reportedly, their future is uncertain. So in this episode, I want to understand this a lot more, as I ask… what are the Projects?
Special guest for this episode:
- Becky Avila-Knox, the Senior Director of Grants & Contracts for Safe Place for Youth. Becky was born and raised in LA’s public housing system, but since moved to the UK and earned her PhD from the University of East Anglia, researching how race relations in America informs educational approaches, cultural production, and identity formation in young children.
Highlights from this episode:
(02:25) The projects look different depending where you are
(06:48) A concentration of people with great need
(09:20) How are the projects funded?
(14:46) What does low income mean in Los Angeles?
(18:55) How is eligibility controlled?
(24:00) Did we just hear somebody die?
(27:27) Generational shifts
(33:25) Should the US government do more?
(38:20) Poverty isn't a single lens issue
Additional Resources:
‘Just say no’ didn’t actually protect students via NPR
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
3 September 2024, 2:00 am - 44 minutes 29 secondsWhat Was the Constitutional Convention?
This week, as the 2024 Presidential election draws nearer, the possibility of a second Trump term looms larger, and the very question of what is and isn’t constitutional becomes increasingly divisive, I want to go all the way back to where it all began. So in this episode, I want to know… what was the Constitutional Convention?
Special Guests:
- Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics and Head of the Department of American Studies at the University of East Anglia
- Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History at Edinburgh University and author of ‘Revolutionary America, 1763-1815’
Highlights from this episode:
(02:27) What do we mean by the Constitutional Convention?
(05:20) The Articles of Confederation
(14:16) A pretty short time to write an entire Constitution?
(17:36) The Bill of Rights and why they were inevitable
(23:41) Slavery and other Constitutional compromises
(30:37) Present day impact of the 1787 convention with Veep
(36:26) What will it take for another convention to happen?
Additional Resources:
BOOK: Revolutionary America, 1763-1815 by Frank Cogliano
WEBSITE: The Articles of Confederation
WEBSITE: National Constitution Center, Constitution Drafting Project
WEBSITE: National Constitutional Center Town Hall, The Constitutional Convention with David Rubenstein
VIDEO: Veep | Tied Election
And if you like this episode, you’ll also love:
What Was the Constitutional Convention?
Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms?
Is the President Above the Law?
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
27 August 2024, 1:00 am - 45 minutes 20 secondsITM 3: Reaction to the Democratic National Convention
This is America: A History in the Making, where we discuss the biggest stories and breaking news from the USA. On this episode, we react to the Democratic National Convention, which has just wrapped in Chicago, where Kamala Harris and Tim Walz officially accepted the Democratic nomination for President and VP respectively.
We discuss the highs, the lows, the speeches, and if, with less than 80 days until the election, this changes the race to the White House.
Special Guests:
- Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics and Head of the Department of American Studies at the University of East Anglia
- Andrew Moran, Head of Criminology, Sociology, Politics and International Relations at London Metropolitan University.
And if you like this episode, you’ll 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?
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
23 August 2024, 8:40 am - 47 minutes 50 secondsHow is Barbie Still Relevant?
In 1959, toy entrepreneur Ruth Handel changed her life forever. Her new product, a doll named after her Daughter Barbara, would become one of the biggest toy franchises in history. Despite the criticisms and its problems, a recent Oscar-winning movie adaptation has won over a whole new generation of fans that guarantees this toy is going nowhere. So in this episode, I want to know… how is Barbie still relevant?
Special Guests:
- Jon Mitchell, an Associate Professor of American Studies at the University of East Anglia. He is interested in late 20th Century US culture, with a particular interest in the representation of gender and sexuality.
- Vaughn Joy, a PhD candidate at UCL researching mid-century Hollywood, politics, and their cross-section through a case study on Christmas films. Welcome back to the podcast Vaughn..
Highlights from this episode:
(02:03) Did you ever own a Barbie doll?
(04:10) Right place, right time
(10:14) Entirely unrealistic proportions
(13:40) Are we just seeing really good advertising?
(18:58) People will always find a reason to criticise a woman's body, and Barbie is no different
(22:45) Ken discovers patriarchy
(27:36) The Barbie brand has been building to this
(32:11) Barbenheimer and the Oscars
(37:36) New perspectives on Barbie
(40:28) We superimpose our expectations of women on toys
Additional Resources:
WEBSITE: Official Barbie store from Mattel
WIKIPEDIA: List of all Barbie films
ARTICLE: How the “Barbie” Movie Explains the Psychology of Patriarchy by Wendy Jones
ESSAY: Butch Barbie by Clara Bradbury-Rance
And if you like this episode, you’ll also love:
What Makes Country Music so American?
Are the Oscars Still Relevant?
Why Does Everyone Love Disney?
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 you can:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college or HE institution? Become an official academic partner of the show now: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
20 August 2024, 1:00 am - More Episodes? Get the App
About America: A History Podcast
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