America: A History Podcast

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America: A History Podcast

Liam Heffernan

7 minutes 3 seconds

BONUS: Disney, Christmas, and 2026

In our last bonus episode of the year, I wanted to share some episodes that can get you through the holiday season, linked below, and give you a little tease of what's to come in 2026.
Spoiler alert: we are going bigger, better and bolder than ever before, so follow the podcast right now and be part of something mega!
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Is Disneyland the Happiest Place on Earth?
What is Disney's America?
Why is Santa So American?
I Am... Jody Williams
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

20 December 2025, 2:00 am
47 minutes 21 seconds

Why is Santa So American?
EPISODE BLURB
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Special guest for this episode:
- Thomas Ruys Smith, a Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of the New Area Studies Research Centre. In 2023, he published The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman, and his new book, Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon, is available to buy now.
- Vaughn Joy, whose doctoral research, Selling Out Santa, focuses specifically on Hollywood Christmas Films in the age of McCarthy.
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Highlights from this episode:
- The discussion revolved around the transformation of Santa Claus into an American cultural icon over the years.
- We explored how Santa's early depictions varied regionally across America, reflecting different cultural influences and customs.
- The podcast highlighted the role of commercialism in shaping Santa’s image, especially during the rise of department stores in the late 19th century.
- Santa Claus has evolved through various literary and film interpretations, reflecting societal values and changes in American culture.
- The conversation touched on the implications of Santa's myth on children's expectations around Christmas and societal values of generosity and goodwill.
- We examined how modern iterations of Santa are influenced by current events and cultural shifts, showcasing his adaptability in American folklore.
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Additional Resources:
Amazon.com: The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman edited by Thomas Ruys Smith
Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys Smith
Selling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthy by Vaughn Joy
Old Santeclaus with Much Delight: The Children's Friend: A New-Year's Present, to the Little Ones from Five to Twelve
'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
A Mischievous St. Nick from the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Santa Claus (1898)
A Little Girl Who Did Not Believe in Santa Claus (1907)
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus (1897)
Is There a Santa Claus? By Jacob Riis
Miracle On 34th Street 1947/ 1994 Double Pack
The Little Messenger Birds: Or, the Chimes of the Silver Bells by Caroline Butler
Thomas Nast - Hello!, Santa Claus! (originally published in "Harper's Weekly," December 20, 1884) - The Metropolitan Museum of Art
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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?
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SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
16 December 2025, 2:00 am
11 minutes 45 seconds

BONUS REPLAY: 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:
- Thomas Ruys Smith, Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of Area Studies at the University of East Anglia, and author of The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman.
- Brian Earl, creator and host of Christmas Past
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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.
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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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
NeoTaste
13 December 2025, 2:00 am
1 hour 1 minute

I Am... Jody Williams
This edition of the podcast is a very special one. Firstly, it’s our 100th main episode, which is astonishing, so I want to thank everyone who has played any part in making this podcast - from everyone at UEA and behind the scenes to every guest who has donated their time and expertise. This genuinely would not have been possible without all of you.
On which note, today also marks the first of our ‘I Am…’ series, where we are joined by someone who has made an indelible mark on America, if not the world, to tell their story in their own words.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Jody Williams, a Nobel Peace Laureate, who changed international law by founding the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). She is now a founding member of the Nobel Women’s Initiative, and her tireless determination to make the world a better, safer, and more equitable place has had an unfathomable impact on millions.
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Additional Resources:
My Name Is Jody Williams: A Vermont Girl's Winding Path to the Nobel Peace Prize by Jody Williams
Jody Williams – Biographical - NobelPrize.org
Jody Williams | Peace Jam
Jody Williams: A realistic vision for world peace | TED Talk
Homepage - ICBLCMC
NobelPrize.org
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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?
How Are Presidents Elected?
What is the US Constitution?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
9 December 2025, 2:00 am
8 minutes 10 seconds

BONUS: The Industry of Comic Book Collectibles
In this bonus episode, comic book expert Julian Chambliss sticks around to discuss his own childhood comic book collection, and reveals the one rare comic book he wishes he could find...
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Special guest for this episode:
- Julian Chambliss, a Professor of English at Michigan State University, whose research focuses on race, culture, and power in real and imagined spaces, with a particular interest in comic book history/
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Highlights from this episode:
- Comic books have played a significant role in fostering a love for reading among children.
- The accessibility of comic books in the United States was much greater during the speaker's childhood.
- Collecting comics can lead to acquiring valuable editions, but many childhood collections were discarded.
- The comic book market is complex and often confusing, especially regarding the value of certain issues.
- The speaker expresses a desire to own a rare comic called Lobo, known for its historical significance.
- Comic book conventions are places where collectors can search for rare finds and engage with others in the community.
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Additional Resources:
Origins and History
Golden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern Ages
Fandom, Endurance, and Collecting
- Why Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News Network
- U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View Research
Cross-Media Adaptations
Representation and Diversity
- Kamala Khan - Wikipedia (Ms. Marvel)
- Black Panther First Appearance - Comic Book Addicts
Julian Chambliss and Comics Scholarship
- Julian C. Chambliss – Michigan State University
- Ages of Heroes, Eras of Men – Cambridge Scholars Publishing/Open Library, Open Library
Comics Studies as an Academic Field
- The Oxford Handbook of Comic Book Studies - Oxford University Press, Amazon UK
- The Power of Comics: History, Form & Culture - Duncan & Smith
Digital Transformation, Webcomics, and New Platforms
Other Notable Reference Titles
- Comic Book Nation: The Transformation of Youth Culture in America – Bradford W. Wright
- Of Comics and Men: A Cultural History of American Comic Books – Jean-Paul Gabilliet
- Seal of Approval. The History of the Comics Code – Amy Kiste Nyberg
- Superhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre – Peter Coogan
- The Dark Age: Grim, Great & Gimmicky Post-Modern Comics – Mark Voger
- Baby Boomer Comics: The Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Comic Books of the 1960s! – Craig Shutt
- The Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere – Paul Sassiene
...
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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
6 December 2025, 2:00 am
52 minutes 19 seconds

Why Does America Love Comic Books?
Comic books are woven into the fabric of American pop culture, evolving from humble newspaper strips to a multi billion dollar industry. Their stories have inspired hope during wars, reflected societal anxieties during culture shifts, and consistently adapted to embrace new technologies and audiences.
Today, comic book heroes and genres remain vibrant symbols of American imagination and reinvention, their influence reaching well beyond the printed page to movies, fashion, digital art, and fandom communities nationwide.
So in this episode, we will explore its origins, cultural impact, and enduring popularity, as I ask… why does America love comic books?
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Special guest for this episode:
- Julian Chambliss, a Professor of English at Michigan State University, whose research focuses on race, culture, and power in real and imagined spaces, with a particular interest in comic book history/
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Highlights from this episode:
- Comic books have transformed from simple newspaper strips into a significant component of American pop culture, highlighting their incredible evolution and widespread appeal.
- The connection between comic book narratives and societal anxieties reflects the historical context of American culture during significant events, like wars and societal shifts.
- Comic book characters, especially superheroes, serve as symbols of American values, often embodying the ideals of hope, justice, and the fight against tyranny, as seen in figures like Captain America.
- The enduring popularity of comic books can be attributed to their diverse storytelling capabilities, allowing them to transcend genres and reach audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
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Additional Resources:
Origins and History
Golden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern Ages
Fandom, Endurance, and Collecting
- Why Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News Network
- U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View Research
Cross-Media Adaptations
Representation and Diversity
- Kamala Khan - Wikipedia (Ms. Marvel)
- Black Panther First Appearance - Comic Book Addicts
Julian Chambliss and Comics Scholarship
- Julian C. Chambliss – Michigan State University
- Ages of Heroes, Eras of Men – Cambridge Scholars Publishing/Open Library, Open Library
Comics Studies as an Academic Field
- The Oxford Handbook of Comic Book Studies - Oxford University Press, Amazon UK
- The Power of Comics: History, Form & Culture - Duncan & Smith
Digital Transformation, Webcomics, and New Platforms
Other Notable Reference Titles
- Comic Book Nation: The Transformation of Youth Culture in America – Bradford W. Wright
- Of Comics and Men: A Cultural History of American Comic Books – Jean-Paul Gabilliet
- Seal of Approval. The History of the Comics Code – Amy Kiste Nyberg
- Superhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre – Peter Coogan
- The Dark Age: Grim, Great & Gimmicky Post-Modern Comics – Mark Voger
- Baby Boomer Comics: The Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Comic Books of the 1960s! – Craig Shutt
- The Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere – Paul Sassiene
...
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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
NeoTaste
2 December 2025, 2:00 am
14 minutes 44 seconds

BONUS: Can a Woman Ever Be Pope?
In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the intriguing question of whether a woman could ever become pope. Plus, we discuss the current hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church and the significant barriers women face in being ordained.
We also come back to the goodness that Pope Leo XIV seems to embody, suggesting that regardless of religious titles, it's the inherent kindness that truly matters.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Kathleen Cummings, a professor of history and American studies at the University of Notre Dame, with a focus on the history of women, Catholicism and American religion. Her books include A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American.
- John Doughney, a childhood friend of Pope Leo. They attended Catholic school together in Chicago, and he now lives in Texas, running a beautiful stained glass business with his wife.
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Highlights from this episode:
- The Catholic Church's hierarchical structure makes it highly unlikely for women to become priests in the near future, let alone a pope.
- The slow pace of change within the Catholic Church means that any significant reforms will take generations to implement, if they happen at all.
- Pope Leo XIV's past education under female theologians suggests potential for progressive change, but resistance remains strong regarding women's ordination.
- The idea of faith as a justification for values is discussed, emphasizing that goodness is not inherently linked to religious beliefs.
- John's reflections on growing up in a blue-collar family highlight how community and tradition shape individual values and beliefs.
- The conversation touches on the intersection of faith, politics, and morality, urging listeners to reflect on the true essence of serving one's fellow man.
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Additional Resources:
A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American by Kathleen Cummings
'We knew there was something special about him,' says childhood friend of Pope Leo
How a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope by the Daily Mail
Pope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News Agency
Stained Glass by John & Nancy Doughney
...
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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
NeoTaste
29 November 2025, 2:00 am
40 minutes 5 seconds

Who is Pope Leo XIV?
From the heart of Chicago’s South Side to the highest office in the Catholic Church, the journey of Robert Provost is as improbable as it is inspiring.
So in today’s episode, we’re exploring the life, legacy, and cultural significance of the first American Pope. From his early years in Illinois, via his transformative missionary work in Peru, all the way to the papacy, this is a story that both reflects and reshapes the American Catholic experience. So… who is Pope Leo XIV?
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Special guest for this episode:
- Kathleen Cummings, a professor of history and American studies at the University of Notre Dame, with a focus on the history of women, Catholicism and American religion. Her books include A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American.
- John Doughney, a childhood friend of Pope Leo. They attended Catholic school together in Chicago, and he now lives in Texas, running a beautiful stained glass business with his wife.
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Highlights from this episode:
- Robert Provost's journey from Chicago's south side to the papacy is truly remarkable.
- This episode highlights the cultural significance of Pope Leo XIV as the first American Pope.
- We delve into how Pope Leo's early life influenced his commitment to servant leadership.
- Pope Leo XIV's missionary work in Peru profoundly shaped his understanding of social justice and community.
- The podcast explores the unique dynamics of being an American Pope in a diverse global church.
- We discuss how Pope Leo XIV's choice of name signifies hope and a commitment to social teaching.
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Additional Resources:
A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American by Kathleen Cummings
'We knew there was something special about him,' says childhood friend of Pope Leo
How a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope by the Daily Mail
Pope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News Agency
Stained Glass by John & Nancy Doughney
...
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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
NeoTaste
25 November 2025, 2:00 am
4 minutes 57 seconds

BONUS: Fannie Lou Hamer - An Unsung Hero of the Civil Rights Movement
In this special bonus episode, we learn about Fannie Lou Hamer, an activist and one of the lesser known heroes of the civil rights movement, who championed for voter equality in the US, and risked her own safety for justice.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Nicholas Grant, an Associate Professor of International History at the University of East Anglia. He is an expert on twentieth century United States, researching race, internationalism and transnational activism.
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Highlights from this episode:
- In this bonus episode, we further unpack the significance of the Voting Rights Act and its historical context, which is crucial for understanding today's political landscape.
- Fannie Lou Hamer emerged as a central figure in the civil rights movement, emphasizing the power of grassroots activism to effect real change in voting rights.
- We encourage listeners to explore Fannie Lou Hamer's life, as her story exemplifies the struggles faced by ordinary individuals fighting for their right to vote.
- The Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party was co-founded by Hamer in 1964, challenging the all-white Democratic Party and advocating for Black political participation.
- Hamer's famous quote, 'I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired,' reflects the frustration and resilience of those fighting against voter suppression.
- As we continue to discuss voting rights, we invite everyone to engage in informed discussions and explore the resources linked in our show notes.
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Additional Resources:
- National Archives Voting Rights Act (1965) Milestone Documents: https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/voting-rights-act
- Civil Rights History Project – Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/classroom-materials/civil-rights-movement/
- The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture – Fannie Lou Hamer and Voting Rights: https://womenshistory.si.edu/blog/fannie-lou-hamer-and-fight-voting-rights
- Primary Source Spotlight: Voting Rights Act of 1965: https://primarysourcenexus.org/2019/02/primary-source-spotlight-voting-rights-act-1965/
- Supreme Court of the United States: Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee (2021) – Full Opinions: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/20pdf/19-1257_g204.pdf
- Shelby County v. Holder (2013) Decision – Wikipedia Guide and Analysis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelby_County_v._Holder
- Brennan Center for Justice – Effects of Shelby County v. Holder on the Voting Rights Act: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/effects-shelby-county-v-holder-voting-rights-act
- Smithsonian Magazine – Fannie Lou Hamer’s Dauntless Fight for Black Americans’ Right to Vote: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/fannie-lou-hamers-dauntless-fight-for-black-americans-right-vote-180975610/
- TIME Magazine – Rosa Parks and Voting Rights Activism: https://time.com/5933396/rosa-parks-voting-rights/
- The National Constitution Center – History and Legacy of the Voting Rights Act: https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/the-history-and-legacy-of-the-voting-rights-act
- Wikipedia: Timeline of Voting Rights in the United States: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_voting_rights_in_the_United_States
- Smith v. Allwright (1944) Decision – White Primaries: https://texaspolitics.utexas.edu/archive/html/vce/features/0404_01/smith.html
- SNCC Digital Gateway – People Who Led the Movement: Fannie Lou Hamer, John Lewis, and Ella Baker: https://snccdigital.org/people/
- PBS LearningMedia – The Black Codes, Reconstruction, and Voting: https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/f5b1df5d-399b-4895-b561-0d2fcd040c49/reconstruction-the-black-codes/
- National Park Service – The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail: https://www.nps.gov/semo/index.htm
- Learning for Justice – Why the Voting Rights Act Matters: https://www.learningforjustice.org/why-the-1965-voting-rights-act-is-crucial-for-democracy
- American Civil Liberties Union – Voting Rights Act: Major Dates in History: https://www.aclu.org/news/topic/voting-rights-act-major-dates-history
...
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?
...
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
Mentioned in this episode:
NeoTaste
22 November 2025, 2:00 am
32 minutes 38 seconds

IN THE MAKING: Will the Epstein Scandal Actually Change Anything?

This week, we're talking about Jeffrey Epstein files, why both sides of the political aisle are uniting and, as the house is set to approve a bill forcing the release of the files in full, could this finally be the beginning of the end for President Trump and the MAGA era?
All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.
.
Special Guest:
This week, we are delighted to be joined by friend of the show Alyssa Royse, a business owner from Seattle, who talks to us about her own experience of sexual assault when she was a teenager (not related to Epstein).
.
We're partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2
Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
Brand Sponsors: [email protected]
Contact us: [email protected]
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219

20 November 2025, 2:00 am
44 minutes 10 seconds

What is the Voting Rights Act?
This week I am discussing one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in US history. Signed during the fervor of the Civil Rights Movement, it stands as a monument to the unfinished struggle for democracy.
So I want to go beyond the legal text, and peel back the layers of history, injustice, activism, and resilience that not just made it possible, but continue to define its relevance, as I ask… what is the Voting Rights Act?
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Special guest for this episode:
- Nicholas Grant, an Associate Professor of International History at the University of East Anglia. He is an expert on twentieth century United States, researching race, internationalism and transnational activism.
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Highlights from this episode:
- The Voting Rights Act emerged from a long struggle for democracy, deeply rooted in the Civil Rights Movement and its ongoing relevance today.
- Grassroots activism and mass protests were essential in the fight for voting rights, culminating in significant legislative changes like the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
- The historical context of Reconstruction highlights the ongoing fight against systemic racism and the need for continued vigilance in protecting voting rights.
- The preclearance provision in the Voting Rights Act effectively prevented thousands of discriminatory voting changes until it was weakened by the Supreme Court in 2013.
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Additional Resources:
- National Archives Voting Rights Act (1965) Milestone Documents: https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/voting-rights-act
- Civil Rights History Project – Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/classroom-materials/civil-rights-movement/
- The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture – Fannie Lou Hamer and Voting Rights: https://womenshistory.si.edu/blog/fannie-lou-hamer-and-fight-voting-rights
- Primary Source Spotlight: Voting Rights Act of 1965: https://primarysourcenexus.org/2019/02/primary-source-spotlight-voting-rights-act-1965/
- Supreme Court of the United States: Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee (2021) – Full Opinions: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/20pdf/19-1257_g204.pdf
- Shelby County v. Holder (2013) Decision – Wikipedia Guide and Analysis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelby_County_v._Holder
- Brennan Center for Justice – Effects of Shelby County v. Holder on the Voting Rights Act: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/effects-shelby-county-v-holder-voting-rights-act
- Smithsonian Magazine – Fannie Lou Hamer’s Dauntless Fight for Black Americans’ Right to Vote: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/fannie-lou-hamers-dauntless-fight-for-black-americans-right-vote-180975610/
- TIME Magazine – Rosa Parks and Voting Rights Activism: https://time.com/5933396/rosa-parks-voting-rights/
- The National Constitution Center – History and Legacy of the Voting Rights Act: https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/the-history-and-legacy-of-the-voting-rights-act
- Wikipedia: Timeline of Voting Rights in the United States: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_voting_rights_in_the_United_States
- Smith v. Allwright (1944) Decision – White Primaries: https://texaspolitics.utexas.edu/archive/html/vce/features/0404_01/smith.html
- SNCC Digital Gateway – People Who Led the Movement: Fannie Lou Hamer, John Lewis, and Ella Baker: https://snccdigital.org/people/
- PBS LearningMedia – The Black Codes, Reconstruction, and Voting: https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/f5b1df5d-399b-4895-b561-0d2fcd040c49/reconstruction-the-black-codes/
- National Park Service – The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail: https://www.nps.gov/semo/index.htm
- Learning for Justice – Why the Voting Rights Act Matters: https://www.learningforjustice.org/why-the-1965-voting-rights-act-is-crucial-for-democracy
- American Civil Liberties Union – Voting Rights Act: Major Dates in History: https://www.aclu.org/news/topic/voting-rights-act-major-dates-history
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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?
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18 November 2025, 2:00 am
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