In our latest review of US news and headlines, we discuss Trump's high stakes gamble in the Middle East... and it seemingly paying off. But was this luck or judgment?

Plus, we also take a look at the recent New York Mayoral primary, where up-and-comer democrat Zohran Mamdani beat former a state governor to the nomination. What does this tell us about the democrats and the fractures within the party?

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Special guest for this episode:

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

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Highlights from this episode:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of American politics, especially how Trump's unpredictable style has led to significant shifts in both domestic and foreign policies.
• Listeners will learn about the ongoing U.S. involvement in conflicts like those between Israel and Iran, and how this situation demands careful examination and nuanced conversation.
• We discuss the fractures within the Democratic Party, highlighting the tension between moderate and progressive factions, and how that shapes their future strategies.
• Our hosts share their thoughts on the impact of Trump's presidency and how it has forever changed the landscape of American politics, leaving a lasting imprint for generations to come.
• The episode emphasizes the necessity for Democrats to define their identity moving forward, especially as the political landscape shifts with new leaders emerging.
• We wrap up with a light-hearted reminder that the world of politics is ever-evolving, and there's always more to chat about, so stay tuned for our next episode.

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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?

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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:

• 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 hello@podcastsbyliam.com 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 episode we're diving into the fabulous world of RuPaul's Drag Race, a show that’s not just a reality competition but has become a cultural phenomenon over nearly two decades.

With a flair for drama that could outshine a Broadway production, this series has launched 26 international versions and catapulted numerous queens into superstardom. But it's not all glitter and glam; we’re unpacking why this show sparks heated debates among fans and critics alike.

Join me as we chat with Drag Race's Emmy-winning co-creators, Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey, about the show's groundbreaking impact on drag culture and its role in reshaping conversations around identity in America.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Randy Barbato & Fenton Bailey, the Emmy-winning co-creators of World of Wonder, the media company behind the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise and streaming service WOW Presents Plus. They have been honored for their trailblazing work with the IDA Pioneer Award, Realscreen’s Global 100 list, Variety’s Reality Leaders List, and Variety’s Reality TV Impact Report, as well as the OUT 100, to name just a few of their accolades.

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Highlights from this episode:

• This podcast celebrates the incredible cultural impact of RuPaul's Drag Race, which has influenced global television for nearly two decades.
• The show has launched numerous drag queens into stardom while also pushing boundaries on gender identity and acceptance in mainstream media.
• With its unique blend of humor and competition, Drag Race has become a parody of reality TV, challenging traditional norms while celebrating community.
• The creators discuss how Drag Race has evolved alongside social media, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities in a way that's both entertaining and empowering.

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Additional Resources:

Sign in - WOW Presents Plus

RuPaul’s Drag Race: our research shows how it helps destigmatise the LGBTQ+ community

‘RuPaul's Drag Race' Creative Duo Set for Sheffield DocFest as "Queer Stories Face Growing Resistance"

Drag Race queens who shared health struggles and stars whose deaths rocked the community | Metro News

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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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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 -

As Pope Leo XIV reaffirms the church's position against abortion, we wanted to reshare this conversation, where Rev. Caleb Lines, a leader in the Christian community, explains why abortion is not a fundamentally religious issue, but a political one, and is, if anything, antithetical to the teachings of the Bible.

It's a fascinating listen, so check it out and leave a comment, follow, and rate this podcast wherever you're listening.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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...