The John Batchelor Show

2. Copley explores the transition from failing republics toward autocracy, noting that government suppression of liberties provides only temporary stability. He distinguishes between "tribal nationalism," rooted in historical values and land, and "state nationalism," which is transactional and prone to corruption. As republics become congested with factional battles and polarized between globalist and nationalist ideologies, they exhaust their resources through patronage. Copley suggests that societies must restructure to survive this breakdown. The transactional nature of modern republicanism eventually loses its unifying power as the state runs out of benefits to distribute. (2)CHARLES II

1. Guest author Gregory Copley defines nobility as a quality of honor and purity essential for a "noble state". He argues that while republics have reached a "sclerotic" peak, becoming consumed by partisan politics, traditional monarchies are reinventing themselves. A monarch serves as a symbolic repository for a nation's heritage, remaining above the political fray. Copley highlights King Charles III as a modern leader reinvigorating this dynamic, apolitical role to unify diverse societies. This provides a sense of historical continuity and purpose that current republican systems struggle to maintain. (1)1670 CHARLES II

4. Zubrin discusses technological frontiers, starting with small modular reactorsdesigned for factory assembly to improve competitiveness. He emphasizes that nuclear power is "absolutely key" to the human future in space, providing essential energy for Mars bases and propulsion where solar energy is insufficient. Regarding fusion, Zubrin expresses optimism that private startups may achieve ignition this decade by bypassing stagnant government programs. He concludes that the U.S. must revitalize its nuclear industrial base to ensure economic independence and national security, warning that current restrictive energy policies threaten Americanprosperity. (4)1953 ATOMIC CANNON.

3. This segment focuses on why nuclear energy has stalled in the United Statesdespite global expansion. Zubrin blames "hostile hyper-regulation" for extending construction times from three to sixteen years, which exponentially increases capital costs. He contrasts the American regulatory "insanity" with the more rational French model. While traditional pressurized water reactors are successful, Zubrin highlights entrepreneurial efforts in thorium and breeder reactors that could revolutionize efficiency. However, he warns that without regulatory reform, these innovations will remain in the research stage, preventing the U.S. from achieving full grid decarbonization. (3)1953 NEVADA

2. Zubrin addresses public fears by analyzing historical nuclear incidents: Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima. He clarifies that Three Mile Island caused no injuries, and Fukushima demonstrated reactor resilience even during a catastrophic tsunami. While acknowledging Chernobyl’s specific design flaws, he argues that coal-fired plants cause far more annual deaths. Regarding nuclear waste, Zubrin asserts that safe storage methods, such as salt caverns used by the Navy, exist but are politically obstructed by activists seeking to dismantle the industry. He concludes that nuclear energy remains remarkably safe compared to conventional power. (2)1903 SANTA BARBARA

1. Robert Zubrin introduces The Case for Nukes, arguing that nuclear power is essential for environmental preservation and global prosperity. He posits that using "artificial" energy sources like uranium protects the natural world by sparing resources like wood and whales. Zubrin highlights the massive energy deficitfacing humanity, noting that lifting the global population out of poverty requires a five-to-tenfold increase in energy production. He critiques wind and solar as insufficient and land-intensive. Finally, he explains the basic physics of fission, emphasizing that uranium holds ten million times the energy of oil. (1)1951 LAS VEGAS

8. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro recounts the 1938 congressional hearings where Hallie Flanagan defended the Federal Theater Project. In a famous exchange, a committee member questioned if Renaissance playwright Christopher Marlowe was a communist. Despite her defense, the project was eventually defunded, leading to a tragic decline in Flanagan's later life. Shapiro also debunks the legend of a "voodoo curse" supposedly placed on critic John Hammond, identifying it as a fabrication by Orson Welles and John Houseman. He concludes that the political tactics used against the arts in the 1930s remain a modern "playbook". (8)1931

7. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro reveals the origins of the House Un-American Activities Committee, involving Samuel Dickstein, a congressman later identified as a Soviet spy. The committee’s attack on the Federal Theater was fueled by Hazel Huffman, a disgruntled WPA worker. Huffman provided misleading testimony to Congressman Martin Dies, falsely labeling various plays as communist propaganda. Although Hallie Flanagan was a mainstream FDR supporter, she was smeared without a chance to cross-examine her accusers. Dies successfully exploited emerging media like radio to turn public opinion against the project and its leadership. (7)1923

6. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro discusses "Living Newspapers," such as *One-Third of a Nation*, which used fact-based accounts to tackle social issues like the housing crisis. These productions angered powerful real estate interests and senators whose own words were often mocked on stage. Shapiro also highlights *Liberty Deferred*, a sardonic play about the history of American racism and lynching. Despite its brilliance and factual basis, white supervisors "slow-walked" the script for years. Consequently, the play was never staged before the Federal Theater was shuttered by the government in 1939. (6)1921

5. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro describes the Federal Theater’s bold production of *It Can't Happen Here*, which served as a warning against a fascist takeover in America. The play’s portrayal of concentration camps and tyranny significantly shifted public opinion regarding the threats posed by Hitler and Mussolini. However, the project faced mounting political opposition. Shapiro introduces Martin Dies, an ambitious Texas congressman who chaired the first House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). Dies targeted the Federal Theater as "low-hanging fruit," accusing it of being communistic to attack FDR’s progressive New Deal policies. (5)1921

4. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro explores the complex reactions to the "Voodoo Macbeth," noting subtle racism in white critical reviews. Black intellectuals like Langston Hughes remained ambivalent, questioning if the project truly told Black stories or merely placed Black performers in "white" roles. The focus then shifts to Sinclair Lewis’s *It Can't Happen Here*. Although MGM initially planned a film adaptation, they scrapped it to avoid losing the German market and to appease censors. Hallie Flanagan seized the opportunity, convincing Lewis to adapt the story for a simultaneous theatrical opening in twenty cities. (4)1928

3. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro details the creation of the famous "Voodoo Macbeth" in Harlem, directed by a twenty-year-old Orson Welles. Replacing Shakespeare’s traditional Scottish setting with 19th-century Haiti, the production substituted witches with voodoo drummers and chanters. Welles, influenced by the rise of global fascism, framed evil as a systemic cultural force rather than a personal failing. The production was a massive hit, eventually moving to Broadway and touring nationally. This tour broke Jim Crow boundaries by bringing a professional Black cast to states where Black citizens lacked political representation. (3)1917

2. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro explains how Hollywood's dominance decimated local theaters, leaving countless actors unemployed by the 1930s. To address this, Harry Hopkins recruited Hallie Flanagan, an experimental theater professor, to lead the Federal Theater Project. Flanagan treated the arts as a federally supported industry, eventually employing 12,000 workers and staging 10,000 productions across 29 states. One-fourth of the American population saw these plays, often for free. The project also established "Negro Units" to develop Black talent and reach underserved communities, involving figures like Rose McClendon and John Houseman. (2)1916

1. Guest Author: James Shapiro James Shapiro discusses the 1936 premiere of *Macbeth* at Harlem's Lafayette Theater, a landmark integrated event during the Jim Crow era. Shapiro introduces his book, *The Playbook*, detailing the Federal Theater Project’s role in American democracy. He highlights Harry Hopkins, FDR's advisor who spearheaded the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Hopkins established "Federal One," a program designed to employ artists, musicians, and writers. Hopkins insisted that professionals, such as violinists, be employed in their specific fields to entertain and serve the public during the Great Depression. (1)1915

STREAMING THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW 3-20-20261868 PERSIAN GULFThis transcript from The John Bachelor Show features a dialogue between host John Bachelor, Jeff Bliss of Pacific Watch, and a commentator known as Germanicus. The discussion begins with an overview of California's current challenges, including record-breaking heatwaves and a controversial $100 million wildlife bridge in Agoura Hills that has faced significant budget overruns. The participants also examine the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, specifically focusing on allegations of political fraud and the lack of financial accountability for state spending. Shifting to international affairs, the dialogue addresses rising global tensions involving Iran and the potential for infrastructure attacks that could destabilize energy markets. Finally, Germanicus provides a historical critique of modern American military strategy, arguing that the nation has traded versatile combat readiness for a reliance on expensive, "exquisite" weaponry.

SHOW SCHEDULE THE JOHN BATCHELOR 3-20-2-261939 OKLAHOMA1. California's Wildlife Bridge and the Homeless Crisis Guest: Jeff Bliss Summary: Jeff Bliss discusses the $100 million "Butterfly Bridge" in Agoura Hills, which is significantly over budget. He also details the "homeless industrial complex" in Los Angeles, including allegations of signature fraud and billions in missing funds. (2)2. The Billionaire Tax and California's Fiscal Deficit Guest: Jeff Bliss Summary: Bliss explores the proposed billionaire tax and the resulting exodus of capital to Florida and Texas. He examines Governor Newsom's national popularity despite a massive state budget deficit and local criticism of his leadership. (3)3. The Global Energy Crisis and Ground War Strategy Guest: Professor Richard Epstein Summary: Richard Epstein warns of a global energy crisis triggered by the Iran war, criticizing Europe's reliance on green energy. He argues that ground troops are necessary to sustain victory and hold military territory effectively. (4)4. UN Credibility and the Laws of Warfare Guest: Professor Richard Epstein Summary: Epstein critiques the UN Secretary-General for accusing Israel and the US of war crimes. He argues the UN lacks credibility and maintains that infrastructure remains a legitimate military target during times of war. (5)5. Lancaster’s Pastry Economy and Infrastructure Progress Guest: Jim McTague Summary: Jim McTague observes Lancaster County's resilient economy, where residents seek "instant gratification" through French pastries during wartime. He also notes steady progress on local infrastructure projects, including a high-security data center. (6)6. Italian Judicial Reform and Tourism in Mantua Guest: Lorenzo Fiori Summary: Lorenzo Fiori explains a constitutional referendum regarding the separation of careers for magistrates and prosecutors. He also provides a travel guide to historic Mantua, recommending its medieval architecture, artichoke pasta, and regional wine. (7)7. Sector Optimism: Petroleum vs. the Housing Slump Guest: Gene Marks Summary: Gene Marks reports boom times for petroleum equipment manufacturers despite rising energy costs. Conversely, he notes that residential construction and home furnishings are struggling due to high interest rates and low buyer demand. (8)8. C-Corporation Tax Strategies and Microsoft AI Agents Guest: Gene Marks Summary: Gene Marks advises retiring entrepreneurs on converting businesses to C-corporations to avoid capital gains taxes. He also introduces Microsoft’s new AI agents, which function like digital employees to automate routine administrative tasks. (9)9. Thomas Paine’s Crisis and the Fabian Strategy Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Ed Larson details Thomas Paine’s "American Crisis," which revitalized the patriot cause. He explains George Washington’s "Fabian strategy" of tactical retreats to wear down the British army while their atrocities fueled local resistance. (10)10. Abigail Adams and the Limits of Equality Guest: Ed Larson Summary: This segment highlights Abigail Adams’ plea to "remember the ladies" in the new code of laws. Ed Larson discusses how her husband, John Adams, dismissed these early calls for gender and racial equality. (11)11. Washington’s Moral Victory at Trenton and Princeton Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Larson recounts Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware during a nor’easter. These victories at Trenton and Princeton provided a critical moral boost for the Continental Army, forcing the British out of West Jersey. (12)12. The Signing of Sovereignty and Revolutionary Dissent Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Details the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the adoption of radical state constitutions asserting that people alone are sovereign. Larson also explores honorable dissent through the perspective of wealthy planter John Dickinson. (13)13. WHO Nuclear Threat Warnings and Reactor Vulnerability Guest: Henry Sokolski Summary: Henry Sokolski analyzes World Health Organization preparations for a "worst-case scenario" nuclear incident. He highlights the vulnerability of regional power reactors to drone strikes and the resulting risks of large-scale radiological releases. (14)14. The Kharg Island Gambit and Vietnam Parallels Guest: Henry Sokolski Summary: Sokolski discusses reports that the US is considering an invasion of Iran’s Kharg Island to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He draws historical parallels to the initial 1965 escalation of the Vietnam War. (15)15. SpaceX Starship Milestones and Artemis Safety Risks Guest: Bob Zimmerman Summary: Reports on the upcoming 12th Starship test flight and Rocket Lab's military contracts. Zimmerman criticizes NASA’s Artemis program for bypassing safety steps and risking lives with untested heat shields and life support. (16)16. Lunar Water Scarcity and Asteroid Ryugu Findings Guest: Bob Zimmerman Summary: Reviews scientific data suggesting significantly less water ice on the lunar South Pole than expected. Zimmer

16. Lunar Water Scarcity and Asteroid Ryugu Findings Guest: Bob Zimmerman Summary: Reviews scientific data suggesting significantly less water ice on the lunar South Pole than expected. Zimmerman also discusses the discovery of DNA building blocks on asteroid Ryugu and the ongoing sun dynamo mystery. (17)SUMMER 1940

15. SpaceX Starship Milestones and Artemis Safety Risks Guest: Bob Zimmerman Summary: Reports on the upcoming 12th Starship test flight and Rocket Lab's military contracts. Zimmerman criticizes NASA’s Artemis program for bypassing safety steps and risking lives with untested heat shields and life support. (16)1953

14. The Kharg Island Gambit and Vietnam Parallels Guest: Henry Sokolski Summary: Sokolski discusses reports that the US is considering an invasion of Iran’s Kharg Island to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He draws historical parallels to the initial 1965 escalation of the Vietnam War. (15)DECEMBER 1954

13. WHO Nuclear Threat Warnings and Reactor Vulnerability Guest: Henry Sokolski Summary: Henry Sokolski analyzes World Health Organization preparations for a "worst-case scenario" nuclear incident. He highlights the vulnerability of regional power reactors to drone strikes and the resulting risks of large-scale radiological releases. (14)DECEMBER 1956

12. The Signing of Sovereignty and Revolutionary Dissent Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Details the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the adoption of radical state constitutions asserting that people alone are sovereign. Larson also explores honorable dissent through the perspective of wealthy planter John Dickinson. (13)19333 VALLEY FORGE STATION

11. Washington’s Moral Victory at Trenton and Princeton Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Larson recounts Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware during a nor’easter. These victories at Trenton and Princeton provided a critical moral boost for the Continental Army, forcing the British out of West Jersey. (12)1942 MONTGOMERY COUNTY PA

10. Abigail Adams and the Limits of Equality Guest: Ed Larson Summary: This segment highlights Abigail Adams’ plea to "remember the ladies" in the new code of laws. Ed Larson discusses how her husband, John Adams, dismissed these early calls for gender and racial equality. (11)1943 VALLEY FORGE`

9. Thomas Paine’s Crisis and the Fabian Strategy Guest: Ed Larson Summary: Ed Larson details Thomas Paine’s "AmericanCrisis," which revitalized the patriot cause. He explains George Washington’s "Fabian strategy" of tactical retreats to wear down the British army while their atrocities fueled local resistance. (10)1950 VALLEY FORGE

8. Business Succession and AIProductivity Guest: Gene Marks Summary: Gene Marks provides tax advice for retiring "boomer" entrepreneurs, suggesting C-corporation conversions. He also introduces Microsoft’s AI agents, which function like specialized digital employees to handle routine tasks such as billing and lead qualification. (8)1939 OKLAHOMA

7. Sector Analysis: Energy, Manufacturing, and Housing Guest: Gene Marks Summary: Gene Marks reports optimism in the petroleum equipment and polystyrene industries despite rising energy costs. However, he notes that residential construction and home furnishings sectors are struggling due to high interest rates. (7)1918 OKLAHOMA

6. Italian Judicial Reforms and Tourism in Mantua Guest: Lorenzo Fiori Summary:Lorenzo Fiori discusses an Italian constitutional referendum regarding judicial independence. He also provides a travel guide to historic Mantua, recommending its medieval architecture, local artichoke pasta, and regional Amarone wine for visiting tourists. (6)1939 OKLAHOMA CITY

5. Economic Trends in Lancaster CountyGuest: Jim McTague Summary: Jim McTague highlights Lancaster’s resilient economy amid rising gas prices. He observes residents seeking "instant gratification" through pastries during wartime and notes steady progress on local infrastructure projects like a new data center. (5)1939 OKLAHOMA

4. The UN’s Role in International ConflictGuest: Professor Richard Epstein Summary:Richard Epstein critiques UN Secretary-General Guterres for accusing Israel and the US of war crimes. He argues the UN lacks credibility and explains why infrastructure remains a legitimate military target under the law of war. (4)1939 OKLAHOMA

3. Global Energy Threats and the Middle East War Guest: Professor Richard Epstein Summary: Professor Epstein warns of a global energy crisis triggered by the Iran war, criticizing Europe's reliance on green energy. He argues that ground troops are necessary for victory and discusses Iranian military capabilities. (3)1918 OKLAHOMA OILFIELD

2. The Politics of Taxes and Newsom’s Future Guest: Jeff Bliss Summary: This segment explores California's potential billionaire tax and the resulting exodus of capital. Discussions include the wide-open gubernatorial race and Governor Gavin Newsom’s national polling despite significant state budget deficits and local criticism. (2)1848 MISSION SAN DIEGO

1. California's Wildlife Bridge and Homeless Crisis Guest: Jeff Bliss Summary: Jeff Bliss examines a $100 million wildlife bridge that is significantly over budget. He also details the "homeless industrial complex" in Los Angeles, including reports of signature fraud and billions in missing state funds. (1)1828 SPRINGERS

PREVIEW FOR LATER Bob Zimmermandiscusses the mysterious dynamo driving the sun’s eleven-year sunspot cycle. New research suggests its location is 125,000 miles deep, though the mechanics of magnetic polarity flips remain largely misunderstood today. GUESTP: Bob Zimmerman (4)MARCH 1958

PREVIEW FOR LATER Henry Sokolskiexamines the potential US Marine deployment to Kharg Island. Drawing parallels to Vietnam, he questions the lack of a clear theory of victory or defined goals for this strategic mission. GUESTP: Henry Sokolski (3)1939 OKLAHOMA

PREVIEW FOR LATER Gene Marxanalyzes why millennials choose rentingover homeownership. Many prioritize travelover mortgages, though high interest ratesplay a role. Future demand remains uncertain as younger generations wait for better conditions. GUESTP: Gene Marx (2)1700 BOSTON

PREVIEW FOR LATER John Bachelor and Lorenzo Fiori explore the medieval city of Mantova. They discuss the seasonal harvestof asparagus and artichokes, offering a simple recipe for fresh pasta enhanced with olive oil. GUESTP: Lorenzo Fiori (1)1790 MILAN LOMBARDY

PREVIEW FOR LATER Jeff Bliss discusses the Butterfly Bridge in California, a wildlife crossing over Highway 101 where original ten million dollar cost estimates for animal safety have now surged past one hundred million dollars. (1)1897 LA

PREVIEW FOR LATER Jim McTague explores a flourishing French pastry business in Pennsylvania where customers seek affordable instant gratification through high-quality, rich treats priced under ten dollars that consistently sell out for the owners daily. (2)1877 BUCKS COUNTY PA

SHOW SCHEDULE 3-19-20261939 OKLAHOMA OILFIELDS, ROUSTABOUT FAMILY HOUSING1. Gregory Copley Headline: The Strait of Hormuz and Global Energy Panic Copley analyzes the strategic fallout of Iranian attacks on Qatari gas fields, which have sent global markets reeling. He argues the Iranian Navy is finished, yet regional instability requires American leadership to ensure regime change. (1)2. Gregory Copley Headline: Russia’s Energy Leverage and the Donbass Proposal Russia benefits significantly from rising oil prices and its desanctioned shadow fleet. Copley notes that some European nations are considering a "Donbass for energy" deal with Putin to stabilize their struggling economies. (2)3. Gregory Copley Headline: China’s Economic Paralysis and Naval Limitations China faces deep internal trouble, with growth expectations falling and Xi Jinping struggling to trust his military commanders. Copley highlights that the PLA Navy remains significantly behind the United States in carrier operations. (3)4. Gregory Copley Headline: British Political Turmoil and the Monarchy's Role King Charles III plans to attend America’s 250th anniversary despite potential diplomatic friction with President Trump. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces historic unpopularity and internal party dissent, though he remains difficult to remove. (4)5. Evan Ellis Headline: Cuba’s Energy Crisis Amidst Cold War Echoes Cuba suffers from nationwide blackouts as Russian oil shipments attempt to bypass U.S. surveillance. Ellis explores the symbolic importance of the island and the complexities of U.S. negotiations with the Castro family. (5)6. Evan Ellis Headline: Venezuela’s Oil Interests and Democratic Hopes While the Trump administration views Venezuela as a success, the Chvista regime remains entrenched through hardline appointments. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado pushes for democratic stability to attract essential foreign investment into the oil sector. (6)7. Evan Ellis Headline: Crime and Political Instability in Latin America Violent spillover from drug trafficking affects the Colombia-Ecuador border, leading to significant casualties and military strikes. Ellis also discusses the arrest of a major gang leader and the ongoing cabinet instability in Peru. (7)8. Evan Ellis Headline: Chile’s Security Reforms Under President Kast President Jose Antonio Kast has prioritized border security and tackling organized crime since his inauguration. His inclusive approach aims to stabilize the economy and address social frustrations lingering from the 2019 riots. (8)9. Edward J. Larson Headline: The Bombardment of Norfolk: A Revolutionary Turning Point In January 1776, the Royal Navy’s attack on Norfolk, Virginia, destroyed civilian homes and convinced colonists that reconciliation with Britain was impossible. George Washington viewed this aggression as a decisive catalyst for independence. (9)10. Edward J. Larson Headline: Henry Knox’s Heroic Artillery Mission Larson recounts the daring winter transport of heavy cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston. This strategic feat allowed Washington to fortify Dorchester Heights, forcing British evacuation and marking his first major military victory. (10)11. Edward J. Larson Headline: Washington’s Desperate Defense of New York Following the victory in Boston, Washington moved to defend New York against an overwhelming British force. Despite the Howe brothers’ initial desire for negotiation, the conflict escalated as the colonies formally declared independence. (11)12. Edward J. Larson Headline: The Intellectual Shift Toward Republican Sovereignty Larson explores how 1776 transformed colonists into independent actors seeking republican governance over royal charters. Washington adopted a "Fabian" strategy, prioritizing army survival over holding territory after the defeat in Manhattan. (12)13. Anatol Lieven Headline: Seeking a Settlement in the Eurasia Crisis High energy prices are pressuring European nations like Belgium and Hungary to consider resuming trade with Russia. Lieven proposes a deal exchanging energy for compromises on the Donbass, though European leadership remains divided. (13)14. Anatol Lieven Headline: NATO Disunity and Eastern European Hardliners Lieven highlights internal friction within NATO regarding Donald Trump’s isolationist rhetoric. While hardliners in Eastern Europe demand unity against Russia, countries like Poland remain primarily focused on their own national defense strategies. (14)15. Sadanand Dhume Headline: India’s Strategic Neutrality in the BRICS Grouping Dhume analyzes India’s unique position, balancing relationships with the U.S. and Israel against energy needs. He describes BRICS as an economically underperforming and politically fractured group with deep-seated internal rivalries. (15)16. Conrad Black Headline: Canada’s Commitment to Arctic Defense Black praises Prime Minister Mark Carney for prioritizing Arctic defense and military modernization. He notes t

16. Conrad Black Headline: Canada’s Commitment to Arctic Defense Black praises Prime Minister Mark Carney for prioritizing Arctic defense and military modernization. He notes that while Canadians support pulling their weight in NATO, challenges persist regarding pipeline development and international participation. (16)1930 OTTAWA

15. Sadanand Dhume Headline: India’s Strategic Neutrality in the BRICS Grouping Dhume analyzes India’s unique position, balancing relationships with the U.S. and Israel against energy needs. He describes BRICS as an economically underperforming and politically fractured group with deep-seated internal rivalries. (15)1865 KOLKAATA

14. Anatol Lieven Headline: NATODisunity and Eastern EuropeanHardliners Lieven highlights internal friction within NATO regarding Donald Trump’s isolationist rhetoric. While hardliners in Eastern Europe demand unity against Russia, countries like Poland remain primarily focused on their own national defense strategies. (14)1896 PETERSBURG

13. Anatol Lieven Headline: Seeking a Settlement in the Eurasia Crisis High energy prices are pressuring Europeannations like Belgium and Hungary to consider resuming trade with Russia. Lieven proposes a deal exchanging energy for compromises on the Donbass, though European leadership remains divided. (13)1900 MOSCOW

12. Edward J. Larson Headline: The Intellectual Shift Toward RepublicanSovereignty Larson explores how 1776 transformed colonists into independent actors seeking republican governance over royal charters. Washington adopted a "Fabian" strategy, prioritizing army survival over holding territory after the defeat in Manhattan. (12)1816

11. Edward J. Larson Headline: Washington’s Desperate Defense of New York Following the victory in Boston, Washington moved to defend New York against an overwhelming British force. Despite the Howe brothers’ initial desire for negotiation, the conflict escalated as the colonies formally declared independence. (11)1829 JEFFERSON AND FRANKLIN

10. Edward J. Larson Headline: Henry Knox’s Heroic Artillery Mission Larson recounts the daring winter transport of heavy cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston. This strategic feat allowed Washington to fortify Dorchester Heights, forcing Britishevacuation and marking his first major military victory. (10)1780

9. Edward J. Larson Headline: The Bombardment of Norfolk: A Revolutionary Turning Point In January 1776, the Royal Navy’s attack on Norfolk, Virginia, destroyed civilian homes and convinced colonists that reconciliation with Britain was impossible. George Washington viewed this aggression as a decisive catalyst for independence. (9)1776 NYC

8. Evan Ellis Headline: Chile’s Security Reforms Under President Kast President Jose Antonio Kast has prioritized border security and tackling organized crime since his inauguration. His inclusive approach aims to stabilize the economy and address social frustrations lingering from the 2019 riots. (8)1910

7. Evan Ellis Headline: Crime and Political Instability in Latin AmericaViolent spillover from drug trafficking affects the Colombia-Ecuador border, leading to significant casualties and military strikes. Ellis also discusses the arrest of a major gang leader and the ongoing cabinet instability in Peru. (7)1863 VENEZUELA

6. Evan Ellis Headline: Venezuela’s Oil Interests and Democratic HopesWhile the Trump administration views Venezuela as a success, the Chvista regime remains entrenched through hardline appointments. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado pushes for democratic stability to attract essential foreign investment into the oil sector. (6)1887 VENEZUELA