America: A History

Liam Heffernan
  • 4.9 (10)
  • HISTORY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The number one American history podcast for anyone with an interest in the people and events that shaped the USA. Every week, Liam Heffernan is joined by the world's foremost experts, academics and broadcasters in the only podcast that connects US past, present and future... and tries to make some sense out of it! . From the founding fathers to contemporary politics, we connect historical events to current issues, making American history accessible and relevant. Perfect for students, educators, and anyone passionate about understanding how America became the nation it is today. . New episodes weekly featuring in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and compelling storytelling that makes history come alive. . America: A History is a part of the Mercury Podcast Network, hosted by your resident US expert Liam Heffernan, in collaboration with the University of East Anglia. . Support the show here: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support For advertising and brand enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com For comments, suggestions, and opinions: america@podcastsbyliam.com

  1. What is the Voting Rights Act?

    1 DAY AGO

    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? ... 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. ... 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. ... Additional Resources: National Archives Voting Rights Act (1965) Milestone Documents: https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/voting-rights-actCivil 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-rightsPrimary 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.pdfShelby County v. Holder (2013) Decision – Wikipedia Guide and Analysis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelby_County_v._HolderBrennan 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-actSmithsonian Magazine – Fannie Lou Hamer’s Dauntless Fight for Black Americans’ Right to Vote: a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/fannie-lou-hamers-dauntless-fight-for-black-americans-right-vote-180975610/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    44 min
  2. BONUS: Chief Seattle, Cultural Appropriation, and Native Legacies

    4 DAYS AGO · BONUS

    BONUS: Chief Seattle, Cultural Appropriation, and Native Legacies

    In this bonus episode, we shed light on the historical significance of Chief Seattle while confronting the challenges of finding credible sources about Native American history. We explore how his voice has been filtered through settler perspectives, creating a shadowy figure in the archives, and discuss the cultural appropriation that often distorts Indigenous narratives. As we navigate through the noise that surrounds Chief Seattle, we aim to uncover the real stories of Indigenous history, particularly in urban settings like Seattle, where the past continually resurfaces. Join us as we delve into the intertwined histories of Indigenous and settler communities and reflect on how those relationships evolve over time. ... Special guest for this episode: Coll Thrush, a professor of history at the University of British Columbia, with a teaching focus on Indigenous and settler colonial histories. His books include the acclaimed Native Seattle. ... Highlights from this episode: Chief Seattle remains a somewhat elusive figure, with historical records often filtered through settler perspectives.Urban and Indigenous histories are not mutually exclusive; they are intertwined and shape each other significantly.Cultural appropriation and the use of Native imagery in cities raise important questions about respect and representation.Indigenous communities in Washington have experienced a resurgence in culture and political presence over the last fifty years.Historical injustices, such as the treatment of Indigenous peoples in boarding schools, continue to impact present-day relations.Apologies for past wrongs, like those issued by political leaders, must be accompanied by meaningful actions to foster true reconciliation. ... Additional Resources: Native Seattle: Histories from the Crossing-Over Place by Coll Thrush Chief Seattle and the Town That Took His Name: The Change of Worlds for the Native People and Settlers on Puget by David Buerge Chief Seattle Speech | The Suquamish Tribe What happened at the great battle at Maple Bay? – The Discourse Treaty of Point Elliott, 1855 | GOIA ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Who Are Native Americans? How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee...

    13 min
  3. Who is Chief Seattle?

    11 NOV

    Who is Chief Seattle?

    This week, we are talking about Seattle. Not the place, specifically, but the formidable indigenous leader of the early 19th century. A warrior, a diplomat, a peacemaker, and an eloquent orator, his defence of Native American rights culminated in a speech that would go down in history, and ultimately lead to his legacy as the namesake for what is now one of the most famous cities in the world. So in this episode, I want to know… who is Chief Seattle? ... Special guest for this episode: Coll Thrush, a professor of history at the University of British Columbia, with a teaching focus on Indigenous and settler colonial histories. His books include the acclaimed Native Seattle. ... Highlights from this episode: Chief Seattle, a prominent indigenous leader, played a crucial role in the early 19th century as both a warrior and a diplomat.His legacy is tied to a historic speech advocating for Native American rights, emphasizing the sacred connection to the earth.The complexities of Chief Seattle's life illustrate the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples during the rise of settler colonialism in the Pacific Northwest.Despite his significant contributions, Chief Seattle's own tribe, the Duwamish, still fights for federal recognition and rights today. ... Additional Resources: Native Seattle: Histories from the Crossing-Over Place by Coll Thrush Chief Seattle and the Town That Took His Name: The Change of Worlds for the Native People and Settlers on Puget by David Buerge Chief Seattle Speech | The Suquamish Tribe What happened at the great battle at Maple Bay? – The Discourse Treaty of Point Elliott, 1855 | GOIA ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Who Are Native Americans? How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation? What is Thanksgiving? ... SUPPORT THE SHOW Individual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships Brand Sponsors: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com We're partnering with...

    39 min
  4. What is Disney's America... and Why Didn't It Happen?

    4 NOV

    What is Disney's America... and Why Didn't It Happen?

    Last week, I asked if Disneyland was the happiest place on Earth. Well, this week, we’re looking at the Disney theme park that never was. The concept for a historical theme park was initially earmarked for Virginia, but less than a year after being announced, it was scrapped. But why? What was so different about this park compared to others? What was the public reaction? And when Disney was able to launch other parks, even cruise ships, and anything else it wanted, what went so spectacularly wrong with this? So this week, I want to know… what was Disney’s America… and why didn’t it happen? ... Special guest for this episode: Jared Bahir Browsh, an Assistant Teaching Professor, cultural historian, and author at the University of Colorado, Boulder, with an interest in the relationship between culture, money, power, and identity in the United States and globally. His piece on The Conversation about the collapse of Disney’s America.Sabrina Mittermeier, a research associate at the University of Kassel with a focus on theme parks. Her books include A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms, and she also wrote a paper specifically on Disney’s America. ... Highlights from this episode: Disney's America was an ambitious project aimed at creating an immersive historical theme park, but ultimately it faced significant backlash and was cancelled due to various cultural and financial factors.The early 90s were a transformative time for Disney, with a strong emphasis on capitalism and expansion, and Disney's America was seen as a reflection of that cultural landscape.Critics pointed out that Disney's America struggled to balance entertainment with the complexities of American history, leading to concerns about how history would be portrayed in a theme park setting.The failure of Disney's America highlighted the challenges of creating a theme park that deals with serious historical themes, especially in a location close to significant Civil War battlefields and historical sites. ... Additional Resources: Inside the collapse of Disney’s America, the US history-themed park that almost was by Jared Bahir Browsh “Windows to the Past”: Disney’s America, the Culture Wars, and the Question of Edutainment by Sabrina Mittermeier Staging a Comeback: Broadway, Hollywood, and the Disney Renaissance by Peter Kunze ... 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...

    1 hr
  5. BONUS: The Wild World of Disney Adults

    1 NOV · BONUS

    BONUS: The Wild World of Disney Adults

    In this bonus episode, we continue our foray into Disney theme parks, discussing the culture of Disney Adults and our favourite parks and rides. What are yours? Email america@podcastsbyliam.com with your opinions, or leave a comment on Spotify and you might be featured on the show next week. ... Special guest for this episode: Sabrina Mittermeier, a research associate at the University of Kassel following a PhD in American Cultural History, with a focus on theme parks. Her books include A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms, and she is one of the foremost academics on all things Disneyland. ... Highlights from this episode: The concept of 'Disney adults' has exploded on social media, especially TikTok, showcasing a unique subculture.Sabrina's deep dive into Disney fandom reveals both the joys and absurdities of adult fans.Disney parks have become a global phenomenon, shaping pop culture and immersive entertainment experiences.There's a strong argument that Disney has fundamentally influenced animation and entertainment worldwide.Many fans of Disney have formed lasting friendships through their shared passion for the parks.Controversies surrounding Disney weddings highlight the divide between casual visitors and dedicated fans. ... Additional Resources: A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms by Sabrina Mittermeier Fan Phenomena: Disney edited by Sabrina Mittermeier Understanding Disney: The Manufacture of Fantasy by Janet Wasko In Front of Ira by Sabrina Mittermeier and Torsten Kathke ... 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...

    12 min
  6. Is Disneyland the Happiest Place on Earth?

    28 OCT

    Is Disneyland the Happiest Place on Earth?

    When Disneyland opened its gates in Anaheim in 1955, it immediately captivated generations of visitors. With seventy years under its belt, its evolution into a sprawling empire of twelve theme parks and six resorts has raked in hundreds of billions of dollars. But have you ever stopped to wonder what fuels this enduring love affair with Disney? In this episode, we explore the cultural significance of Disneyland: its roots, its innovative beginnings, and how it has shaped family entertainment. And ultimately, we unpack why Disneyland is famously dubbed “the happiest place on Earth” and whether that claim can really hold true. ... Special guest for this episode: Sabrina Mittermeier. a research associate at the University of Kassel following a PhD in American Cultural History, with a focus on theme parks. Her books include A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms, and she is one of the foremost academics on all things Disneyland. ... Highlights from this episode: Disneyland opened in 1955, marking the beginning of an iconic theme park legacy that continues to thrive.The emotional connection people have with Disneyland stems from its immersive experiences and nostalgic ties to childhood.Understanding Disneyland's cultural impact requires recognizing its evolution into a global brand with diverse interpretations.Walt Disney's vision of Disneyland was not just about entertainment; it was about creating a community-centered experience for families.The financial strategies behind Disneyland's success involved innovative partnerships and risk-taking that changed the entertainment landscape.Disneyland's branding and marketing have created a perception of it as 'the happiest place on Earth', but this is influenced by various socio-economic factors. ... Additional Resources: A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms by Sabrina Mittermeier Fan Phenomena: Disney edited by Sabrina Mittermeier Understanding Disney: The Manufacture of Fantasy by Janet Wasko In Front of Ira by Sabrina Mittermeier and Torsten Kathke ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What

    53 min
  7. BONUS: Cultural Appropriation or Recognition?

    25 OCT · BONUS

    BONUS: Cultural Appropriation or Recognition?

    In this bonus episode, Native American historian Camilla Townsend explores the grey area between appropriation and recognition, and how it's better to be symbolised imperfectly versus being completely forgotten. This follows on from our previous episode, Who is Pocahontas? as we continue our discussions on Native American culture and history. ... Special guest for this episode: Camilla Townsend, the author of Pocahontas and the Powhatan Dilemma. She is also a Distinguished Professor of History at Rutgers University, and is one of the world’s foremost scholars on Native American history. Her work has vastly improved our understanding of Native people. ... Highlights from this episode: This episode dives deeper into the complexities of Pocahontas's representation in popular culture and history.Camilla Townsend emphasizes the importance of Native American voices in museums and cultural discussions.We explored the dual-edged nature of stereotypes, providing both visibility and perpetuating harm to Native Americans.The conversation highlights the urgent need for accountability regarding historical treatment and representation of Native Americans.Listeners are encouraged to seek out various resources to gain a fuller understanding of Pocahontas's life and legacy.We discussed the significance of acknowledging the historical realities over simplified symbols in American consciousness. ... Additional Resources: Pocahontas and the Powhatan Dilemma: The American Portraits Series by Camilla Townsend Pocahontas, Powhatan, Opechancanough: Three Indian Lives Changed by Helen Rountree Pocahontas and the English Boys: Caught between Cultures in Early Virginia by Karen Kupperman ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Who Are Native Americans? How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation? What is Thanksgiving? ... SUPPORT THE...

    8 min
  8. Who is Pocahontas?

    21 OCT

    Who is Pocahontas?

    The narrative of Pocahontas is often overshadowed by the simplistic and romanticized version depicted in films. In this episode, we untangle the truth from the many myths surrounding her life, led by historian Camilla Townsend of Rutgers University. We begin by examining Pocahontas's early life, born in the late 1590s to Powhatan, the chief of a confederacy of tribes in Virginia. While Pocahontas was indeed the daughter of a powerful leader, she was not a princess in the conventional sense. Her upbringing was steeped in the realities of tribal warfare. We take a critical look at the impact of European colonization on Native American tribes, illustrating how Pocahontas' story is intertwined with broader themes of conflict and survival. As the English settlers arrived, the Powhatan Confederacy faced numerous challenges, and Pocahontas, initially a child during these turbulent times, became a key figure in the complex interactions that followed. We discuss her first encounter with John Smith and the misunderstandings that arose from their relationship, debunking the myth of a romantic liaison. Instead, this is a young girl trying to navigate her world amidst cultural upheaval and violence. And we look at Pocahontas' capture by the English, her eventual marriage to John Rolfe, and the implications of her forced conversion to Christianity. Townsend’s insights into Pocahontas's life in England reveal a young woman grappling with her identity and the expectations of her new reality. ... Special guest for this episode: Camilla Townsend, the author of Pocahontas and the Powhatan Dilemma. She is also a Distinguished Professor of History at Rutgers University, and is one of the world’s foremost scholars on Native American history. Her work has vastly improved our understanding of Native people. ... Highlights from this episode: Pocahontas is often misunderstood due to the Disney movie, which simplifies her complex story significantly.She was born in the late 1590s as the daughter of Powhatan, a paramount chief over numerous tribes.Her upbringing was shaped by the societal expectations of her tribe, where women played essential roles but were not viewed as equals to men.Despite being a lower-ranking daughter, Pocahontas showed remarkable intelligence and adaptability, learning languages quickly and engaging with the English explorers.Pocahontas's relationship with the British was complicated, marked by both skirmishes and attempts at diplomacy, which was often overlooked in popular narratives.Her eventual marriage to John Rolfe was seen as a strategic alliance, reflecting the broader conflicts and power dynamics between Native Americans and settlers. ... Additional Resources: Pocahontas and the Powhatan Dilemma: The American Portraits Series by Camilla Townsend ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Who Are Native Americans? How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation? What is Thanksgiving? ... SUPPORT THE...

    42 min
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4.9
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

The number one American history podcast for anyone with an interest in the people and events that shaped the USA. Every week, Liam Heffernan is joined by the world's foremost experts, academics and broadcasters in the only podcast that connects US past, present and future... and tries to make some sense out of it! . From the founding fathers to contemporary politics, we connect historical events to current issues, making American history accessible and relevant. Perfect for students, educators, and anyone passionate about understanding how America became the nation it is today. . New episodes weekly featuring in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and compelling storytelling that makes history come alive. . America: A History is a part of the Mercury Podcast Network, hosted by your resident US expert Liam Heffernan, in collaboration with the University of East Anglia. . Support the show here: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support For advertising and brand enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com For comments, suggestions, and opinions: america@podcastsbyliam.com

Information

  • Creator
    Liam Heffernan
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    170
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mercury Podcasts
  • Show Website
    America: A History

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