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...

In this episode, with Trump's threats about Canada, Greenland, Panama, Gaza and others becoming US-owned territories and states, one of our earliest conversations on the podcast is now more important than ever.

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Over the past 250 years, the United States of America have grown from 13 founding colonies to 50 states and multiple territories, but what does it take to become a state?

Why is expansionism so important?

And what about Native Americans?

In this episode, we explore how colonialism created a blueprint for modern America as we answer the question... how did the 50 states become the 50 states?

We're joined on this episode by Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia, with an interest in the American West, immigration and Americanisation.

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Additional Resources:

BOOK: The Invasion of America by Francis Jennings

PAMPHLET: Common Sense by Thomas Paine

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If you enjoy this episode, you might also like:

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:

• 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.

As we all adjust to a rapidly changing America, and the impact this is having around the world, we've taken some time out from the podcast to reflect on exactly what we're doing, and how we can continue to do it appropriately and effectively.

We know that at the moment, it's as important to look to the future as it is to understand the past. So our podcast needs to keep up with that, drive important conversations, and continue to provide value to you, our listener.

What that looks like is different now to when we launched this in 2023.

But we promise: we will be back.

In this bonus episode, I'm joined again by Will McCorkle from the College of Charleston, following our recording of 'How Has Immigration Shaped American Idenitty?'

We had such a blast in our previous episode, but there’s just so much more to unpack! We’re taking a closer look at Trump’s ever-elusive border wall and whether it’s ever going to be a reality or just a big ol’ distraction. Spoiler alert: it’s a bit of both! Plus, we dig into the wild world of birthright citizenship and what it actually means, because let’s face it, some folks don’t quite get it. Trust me, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and maybe a few "Did they really just say that?" moments, so buckle up.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Will McCorkle, an assistant professor of educational foundations and social studies education at the College of Charleston. His research focuses on the intersection of nationalism, immigration, and education with a particular focus on more marginalized migrant communities.

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Highlights from this episode:

• The podcast dives deep into how immigration has shaped American identity, a topic that is both timely and critical.
• We discuss the infamous Trump wall, comparing its reality to Biden's border policies, and how both are more symbolic than effective.
• Birthright citizenship is examined, revealing the complexities of the 14th Amendment amidst current political pressures to revoke it.
• The conversation touches on the importance of public pushback against extreme immigration policies, citing historical examples like family separations.
• We explore the current political climate, emphasizing the need for checks and balances in government to prevent abuses of power.
• The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to engage in advocacy, highlighting the power of collective resistance.

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Additional Resources:

William McCorkle – The Conversation

Immigration and U.S. citizenship | USAGov

Six big immigration changes under Trump - and their impact so far - BBC News

US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000 | Pew Research Center

The impact of immigration on cultural diversity - Immigration & Residency

Legal Immigration: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

Practice Mercy

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

When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States

Is America an Empire?

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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...

This week, on the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, which was 113 years ago today, we’re shining a light on one of its biggest investors; a man who is as controversial as he was transformative to the future of America. The railroad, the steel industry, the treasury - all impacted greatly by his involvement and investment. So in this episode we’re going to explore the rise of one of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in American history, as I ask… who is J.P. Morgan?

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Special guest for this episode:

• Jean Strouse, one of the preeminent biographers of J.P. Morgan and author of Morgan: American Financier. Her accomplished career includes being President of the Society of American Historians, and a consultant to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

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Highlights from this episode:

• On the anniversary of the Titanic's sinking, we dive into J.P. Morgan's controversial yet transformative impact on America's future, especially in finance and industry.
• Morgan was a key player in the railroad and steel industries, fundamentally changing the financial landscape of the United States during his time.
• Despite his immense influence, J.P. Morgan's wealth was debated; he was seen as not as rich as other contemporaries like Rockefeller, which adds complexity to his legacy.
• His early life was marked by privilege and education, shaping his future as a powerful banker who managed chaotic markets with a unique approach and keen understanding of finance.
• Morgan's contributions included organizing the creation of U.S. Steel and stabilizing financial crises, showcasing his dual role as a profit-driven businessman and a national stabilizer.
• Ultimately, J.P. Morgan's legacy is mixed; he is viewed as both a robber baron and a pivotal figure in America's economic development, leaving an imprint on culture and industry that persists today.

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Additional Resources:

Morgan: American Financier by Jean Strouse

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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?

Could Friends BE Any Bigger?

How Accurate is Forrest Gump?

...

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...

In this lively bonus episode, we hit the rewind button to dig deeper into our earlier talk on the Internet’s influence on American politics, focusing on the undeniable role of social media. Liam and the brilliant Jennifer Stromer-Galley dive into the vibrant and sometimes volatile world of Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit.

They contemplate whether social media is merely a tool for political communication, or if it has morphed into something far more complex, shaping narratives and influencing outcomes in ways we’re just beginning to understand.

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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.

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Highlights from this episode:

• In today's episode, we dove deep into how social media, especially platforms like Reddit and TikTok, has reshaped the way we consume news and engage in political discourse.
• We discussed how Trump and Musk are leveraging social media to influence American politics, creating both opportunities and concerns for democracy.
• Reddit's unique community-focused nature allows for more extensive discussions, setting it apart from quicker, more superficial platforms like Twitter.
• We also touched on the impact of campaign financing in politics, highlighting how money matters more than ever in shaping electoral outcomes and candidate viability.

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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

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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?