America: The Story of the USA

America: Study Notes are quickfire explainers for all the things you want to know about the USA, but don't want to ask.This week, The Rules of American Football - a brief history of the game, and everything you need to know, to understand what the heck is going on!.Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand & advertising enquiries: [email protected]

This week, we're talking about the DOJ's release of three million documents relating to Jeffrey Epstein, and Trump's suggestion of nationalising elections.Plus Sanam Naraghi Anderlini MBE discusses growing tension in the middle east, as the US and Iran inch ever closer to conflict.All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making..Special Guests:Clodagh Harrington from University College Cork. She is also host of the wonderful podcast A Chicken in Every Pot alongside Alex WaddanSanam Naraghi Anderlini MBE, founder of the International Civil Society Action Network, and host of the excellent podcast If You Were in Charge..Mentioned in this Episode:A Chicken in Every Pot: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-chicken-in-every-pot/id1780348590ICAN: https://icanpeacework.org/If You Were in Charge :https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/if-you-were-in-charge/id1770618616Clintons agree to testify: https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/general/bill-and-hillary-clinton-agree-to-testify-in-house-about-jeffrey-epstein/ar-AA1VwJQU?ocid=BingNewsSerpDOJ releases epstein files: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-publishes-35-million-responsive-pages-compliance-epstein-filesMet Police to investigate Peter Mandelson: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/clynp40ekrdt?page=4Josh D’Amaro to Become Disney CEO: https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/news/disney-ceo-announcement/Trump wants to nationalise elections: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0mke841zj0oFBI raid Fulton Country election office: <a...

Set in the forests of upstate New York during the French and Indian War, James Fenimore Cooper’s 1826 novel has become one of the most enduring works of early American literature. It helped define the frontier myth, shaped American ideas about Native peoples, and influenced generations of writers, filmmakers, and cultural storytellers.Today, as we mark its 200th anniversary, we explore its themes, its historical context, and its complicated legacy.So in this episode, I’m asking… what is The Last of the Mohicans?...Special guest for this episode:Professor Thomas Ruys Smith, a scholar of American literature and culture at the University of East Anglia. His work spans the 19th century, with particular expertise in the intersections of literature, history, and national identity. He has written extensively on American storytelling traditions, frontier mythology, and the cultural imagination of the early United States....Highlights from this episode:02:09 - Standing the test of time06:21 - America's newfound sense of self10:36 - The story of The Last of the Mohicans15:40 - Romanticising colonisation21:23 - What the frontier means for America27:09 - White male heroes31:29 - Native American representations35:57 - National identity isn't just black and white40:32 - A more colourful America47:05 - I'm freakin' Hawkeye...Additional Resources:The Last of the Mohicans — Free eBook https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/940LitCharts: Themes and Analysis https://www.litcharts.com/lit/the-last-of-the-mohicans (litcharts.com in Bing)SparkNotes: Summary and Themes https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/mohicans/Novelguide: Theme Analysis https://novelguide.com/the-last-of-the-mohicans/theme-analysis (novelguide.com in Bing)Montclair State University: Theme PDF https://cyber.montclair.edu/Resources/B2F9F/501012/ThemeOfLastOfTheMohicans.pdf (cyber.montclair.edu in Bing)Encyclopedia Britannica: Cooper Biography https://www.britannica.com/biography/James-Fenimore-Cooper (britannica.com in Bing)Library of Congress: Cooper Collection https://www.loc.gov/collections/james-fenimore-cooper/about-this-collection/ (loc.gov in Bing)American Literature: Cooper Overview<span

America: Study Notes are quickfire explainers for all the things you want to know about the USA, but don't want to ask.This week, A Brief History of the 50 States. I’ll explain how the United States grew from the 13 original states into the 50 states we have today, explaining the legal process of admission, major land acquisitions, political forces that shaped statehood, and the final additions of Alaska and Hawaii..Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected]

This week, we're talking about Trump showing signs of cooling on ICE in Minnesota, social media giants feel the pressure, plus Mr. Potato Head finds himself at the center of a legal dispute.Plus, the US are lining up for a possible strike on Iran, but when will they make their move, and what will this mean for Iran, America, and the world?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 Theo Zenou, Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University. He earned his PhD in American history from Cambridge University and writes for The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal UnHerd and others..Links to Stories in this Episode:Donald Trump describes 'very good call' with Tim WalzWho Was Alex Pretti?Judge orders ICE chief to appear in court or risk contempt | AP NewsGreg Bovino, architect of Trump's immigration sweeps, departs Minneapolis | AP NewsWhy Rhode Island might ditch its Mr. Potato Head license plates | AP NewsTikTok settles just before social media addiction trial to begin - BBC NewsSeahawks, Patriots set to meet in Super Bowl rematch - CBS NewsComposer Philip Glass drops Kennedy Center world premiere over Trump takeover | Reuters.Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email [email protected] and let's talk.Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected]

This week, we explore what is arguably the most consequential event in the creation of the United States, reshaping the Western world by enshrining new concepts of liberty, equality, and self-governance. So I want to know what really caused it, why people risked their lives for it, and how are modern day debates about power, justice and identity still shaped by it, as I ask… what is the American Revolutionary War?...Special guest for this episode:Liz Covart, the award-winning creator and host of Ben Franklin’s World. Her work, both academic and public, shines in exploring how early Americans navigated 18th-century complexity: loyalty and revolution, community and conflict, the realities of freedom and the challenges of pluralism. She is also the founder of Scholar.DIY, a public benefit company that empowers scholars to transform their expertise into compelling digital stories....Highlights from this episode:02:56 - A world of empires08:51 - Taxation without representation17:21 - The revolution for social mobility25:48 - Shaping American identity29:27 - Key battles34:12 - A mutual enemy39:22 - The defining moments in America's victory45:06 - Impact of independence on marginalised groups49:29 - Liberty and equality for some...Additional Resources:Encyclopedia Britannica: Timeline of the American Revolution — Detailed chronology and major themesAmerican Battlefield Trust: Revolution Timeline — Comprehensive timeline, maps, major battlesLibrary of Congress: Revolution Primary Sources — Original documents and teaching resourcesHave Fun With History: 10 Most Important People in the American Revolution — In-depth profiles and legacy discussionsMount Vernon: 10 Facts About the Revolutionary War — Focus on George Washington’s leadership and decision-makingAmerican Revolution.org: Best Primary Sources — Diaries, letters, maps, memoirs, political cartoonsKhan Academy: Philosophical

America: Study Notes are quickfire explainers for all the things you want to know about the USA, but don't want to ask.This week, US time zones: what they are, why they exist, and a few quick tips so you don’t miss a lecture (or a podcast recording) ever again..Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected]

This week, on America: In the Making…Will Greenland be the death of the UK-US special relationship?AI-generated confusion after Monkeys escape a zoo in Missouri, andOne small step for Congress, one giant leap for mankind. I speak to Casey Dreier, Chief of Space Policy at The Planetary Society, about Trump’s failed efforts to decimate the NASA budget..Special Guest:This week, we are delighted to be joined by Emma Long, an Associate Professor in American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia..Useful Links:Trump has threatened Europe with higher tariffs. What happens now? | The IndependentThe exchange of messages between Norway's prime minister and President Trump | Reuters Keir Starmer about to hold emergency press conferenceTrump Shares Map of US Including Greenland, Canada, Venezuela - NewsweekCongress passes $24.4 billion NASA budget, rejecting Trump's deep cutsAs Musk works to slash federal spending, his own firms have received billions in government contracts - ABC NewsThe Planetary SocietyArmy has put 1,500 soldiers on standby for possible Minnesota deployment | AP NewsMultiple monkeys on the loose in St. Louis | AP NewsSupreme Court weighs Trump's firing of the Fed's Lisa Cook by social media | Reuters<li...

Today, we turn our focus to a figure who remains as enigmatic as he is iconic. Ascending to the presidency at one of the tensest moments in American and world history, he energized a nation with his call for a “New Frontier,” navigated the shoals of the Cold War, and inspired Americans with his vision for space and civil rights. Yet behind his polished image lay personal struggles, political obstacles, and a legacy marked as much by tragedy as by promise.So in this episode, on the anniversary of his inauguration, I’m asking… who is President John F. Kennedy?..Special guest for this episode:Barbara Perry, a distinguished scholar from the University of Virginia’s Miller Center and one of the preeminent experts on the Kennedy family and presidency. She has authored and edited numerous books, including Jacqueline Kennedy: First Lady of the New Frontier and Rose Kennedy: The Life and Times of a Political Matriarch....Highlights from this episode:John F. Kennedy's presidency, despite its brevity, was marked by significant achievements in civil rights and the space race.Kennedy's early life and family background played a crucial role in shaping his political ambitions and character.The complexities of JFK's personal life, including his infidelities, contrast sharply with his public persona as a devoted leader.The impact of JFK's assassination continues to resonate in American culture and politics, symbolizing a profound national tragedy....Additional Resources:Jacqueline Kennedy: First Lady of the New Frontier by Barbara PerryRose Kennedy: The Life and Times of a Political Matriarch by Barbara PerryMiller Center: JFK Life Before the PresidencyMiller Center: Domestic AffairsMiller Center: Impact and LegacyJFK Library: Life of John F. KennedyJFK Library: PT-109JFK Library:...

In July 2023, I launched a bit of a passion project, with my old lecturers at the University of East Anglia.America: A History was born.But a lot has changed in two and half years.And we thought it was about time we did too...Introducing, America: The Story of the USA, in partnership with the British Association for American Studies.Returns 19th January....Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected] to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email [email protected] and let's talk.

The tree is up, the lights are on, and the presents are (probably) wrapped. Only two more sleeps until the day when sacred, family-oriented togetherness merges with ruthless consumer culture… or, as it’s more commonly known, Christmas. So in this episode we’re going to dive into the murky, tinsel-covered contradiction of the holiday season, as I ask… is Capitalism killing Christmas?...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. 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.Brian Earl the creator and host of the excellent podcast Christmas Past… a very merry welcome back to Brian Earl…...Highlights from this episode:Christmas has evolved significantly from its religious roots into a commercially driven holiday, with advertising and consumerism deeply intertwined.The Puritans' resistance to Christmas in early America reflects a long-standing conflict between celebration and moral values within American culture.Consumerism and Christmas are inextricably linked; it's hard to separate the two without losing the holiday's modern meaning.Historical variations in Christmas celebrations across America reveal regional differences in traditions, influenced by factors like local culture and economy.The rise of industrialism in the 19th century played a crucial role in shaping the consumer habits associated with the Christmas season.Charitable giving during Christmas often serves to highlight socioeconomic divides while simultaneously fostering a sense of community and shared goodwill....Additional Resources:Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys SmithChristmas Past by Brian EarlThe Modern Christmas in America: A Cultural History of Gift Giving by Williams Waits<a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2078795"...

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!...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...Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected] to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email [email protected] and let's talk.

Last year, I asked ‘Who is Santa Claus?’ We discussed the origins and early incarnations of the figure we now understand to be Santa through a more global lens. So this year, I want to continue this conversation, but look specifically at how he became America’s poster boy for Christmas, and why this could be challenged in future, as I ask… why is Santa so American?...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....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....Additional Resources:Amazon.com: The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman edited by Thomas Ruys SmithSearching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys SmithSelling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthy by Vaughn Joy<a...

In this special festive bonus episode, Liam &amp; 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!...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...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. ...And if you like this episode, you might also love:What is the War on Christmas?How to Make a Hollywood Christmas MovieWhat's the History of Christmas in America?...Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected] to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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....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....Additional Resources:My Name Is Jody Williams: A Vermont Girl's Winding Path to the Nobel Peace Prize by Jody WilliamsJody Williams – Biographical - NobelPrize.orgJody Williams | Peace JamJody Williams: A realistic vision for world peace | TED TalkHomepage - ICBLCMCNobelPrize.org...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?...Contact us: [email protected] the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: [email protected] to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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......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/...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....Additional Resources:Origins and HistoryHistory of American comics - WikipediaHistory Of American Comics: From Victorian Roots To The Modern Multimedia Era (Toons Mag)American comic book - WikipediaHistoire de Mr. Vieux Bois – Wikipedia + Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records: First ComicA History of the Comic Book - Random HistoryGolden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern AgesComic Book Ages Explained - BiowarsSilver Age Comics - Comic Buying CenterThe Flash: The Silver Age - Slings &amp; ArrowsModern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollectFandom, Endurance, and CollectingWhy Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News NetworkU.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View ResearchCross-Media AdaptationsThe Impact of Comic Books on Popular Culture -

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?...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/...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....Additional Resources:Origins and HistoryHistory of American comics - WikipediaHistory Of American Comics: From Victorian Roots To The Modern Multimedia Era (Toons Mag)American comic book - WikipediaHistoire de Mr. Vieux Bois – Wikipedia + Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records: First ComicA History of the Comic Book - Random HistoryGolden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern AgesComic Book Ages Explained - BiowarsSilver Age Comics - Comic Buying CenterThe Flash: The Silver Age - Slings &amp; ArrowsModern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollectFandom, Endurance, and Collecting<a...

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....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....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....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 LeoHow a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope&nbsp; by the Daily MailPope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News AgencyStained Glass by John &amp; 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...

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?...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....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....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 LeoHow a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope&nbsp; by the Daily MailPope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News AgencyStained Glass by John &amp; 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...

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....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: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....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 &amp; 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"...