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 Electoral College Explained - why it was created, how it works, and how it impacts a Presidential election. . Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa⁠ - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: ⁠https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/⁠ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, on America: In the Making... the fallout from Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance (15:47), teacher strikes continue in San Francisco (01:39), that AI video with the Obamas (05:34), the NAACP take on Elon Musk (38:06), and a cat sanctuary puts some kindness back in the world (12:15) Joining the show this week is Ira Chaleff, author of To Stop a Tyrant: The Power of Political Followers, which is available to buy now. He is co-author of the original handbook given to every newly elected member of the US Congress and is Chair Emeritus of the non-partisan Congressional Management Foundation. And Abre' Conner, Director of Environmental and Climate Justice at the NAACP . News sources: NAACP Taking Action: Tech companies ‘be on alert,’ NAACP says with new guiding principles for data centers | The Verge NAACP Playbook: https://naacp.org/articles/naacp-releases-playbook-frontline-communities-stop-dirty-data-centers  NYT Magazine Article: https://law.news.niu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/03/Pollution-Is-Killing-Black-Americans.-This-Community-Fought-Back.-.pdf  Bad Bunny and the Super Bowl: https://apnews.com/article/bad-bunny-kid-rock-super-bowl-halftime-698c46096a387cfec34e4cc2fba29d82  Turning Point’s halftime show: https://www.msn.com/en-xl/news/other/millions-of-super-bowl-fans-tune-into-turning-point-usas-halftime-show-instead-of-bad-bunny/ar-AA1VWOUB?ocid=BingNewsSerp  Megyn Kelly on Piers Morgan: https://youtu.be/UmoekomrMww  Spanish speaking Americans: https://factually.co/fact-checks/society/percentage-of-us-population-that-speaks-spanish-e6d3f7  Teacher strikes in San Francisco: https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-teachers-strike-ec574f8ac7ef0e0041e9f136e9f99140  Trump’s Obama video: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2026/02/06/donald-trump-racist-meme-obama-explained/88544923007/  Trump not apologising: https://time.com/7372734/trump-obama-monkey-video-republican-criticism-racist-trope/  Cat Sanctuary: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/pet-sanctuary-takes-in-overflow-from-homeless-shelter-amid-unprecedented-cold-snap/  Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary: https://safehavenpet.org/ . Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa⁠⁠⁠ Get the newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/⁠⁠⁠ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing a gifted performer, a scholar, athlete, and, above all, a tireless activist. Born to a lineage marked by slavery and resilience, he rose to become one of the twentieth century’s greatest Renaissance figures, fighting for civil rights, and championing peace and internationalism. His legacy is inseparable from the complex development of American national identity. His cosmopolitan vision, his refusal to be “just an entertainer” in a segregated nation, and his insistence that the artist must “take sides” brought him both global adulation and the crushing weight of McCarthyite repression. We’re going to revisit his early influences, his multifaceted career, the full arc of his activism, and his impact on ideas of citizenship, art, and what it means to stand for justice in America and the world. So in this episode, I’m asking… who is Paul Robeson? . Special Guest: 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: 02:51 - A disdain for Uncle Tom 09:02 - Race and social mobility 17:50 - Black America and the Harlem renaissance 23:19 - Leaving the echo chamber 29:05 - Robeson and Wales 39:18 - McCarthyism 44:17 - HUAC . For an extended reading list and to learn more, join our Patreon community now: ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa⁠ . Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Get the newsletter: ⁠https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/⁠ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Waddan Sanam 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/id1780348590 ICAN: https://icanpeacework.org/ If You Were in Charge :https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/if-you-were-in-charge/id1770618616 Clintons 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=BingNewsSerp DOJ releases epstein files: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-publishes-35-million-responsive-pages-compliance-epstein-files Met Police to investigate Peter Mandelson: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/clynp40ekrdt?page=4 Josh 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/c0mke841zj0o FBI raid Fulton Country election office: https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/winners-losers-from-james-harden-trade-to-cleveland-cavaliers/ar-AA1VCscN?ocid=BingNewsSerp US shoot down Iranian drone: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/us-carrier-shoots-down-iranian-drone-as-tensions-escalate-and-diplomatic-talks-hit-a-snag/ar-AA1VABf1?ocid=BingNewsSerp . Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 time 06:21 - America's newfound sense of self 10:36 - The story of The Last of the Mohicans 15:40 - Romanticising colonisation 21:23 - What the frontier means for America 27:09 - White male heroes 31:29 - Native American representations 35:57 - National identity isn't just black and white 40:32 - A more colourful America 47:05 - I'm freakin' Hawkeye ... Additional Resources: The Last of the Mohicans — Free eBook https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/940 LitCharts: 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 https://americanliterature.com/author/james-fenimore-cooper (americanliterature.com in Bing) The Cambridge History of American Literature — Cooper chapter https://www.cambridge.org Oxford Bibliographies: James Fenimore Cooper https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com The Cambridge Companion to James Fenimore Cooper https://www.cambridge.org Playing Indian by Philip Deloria (on Native representation) https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780300080674 (hup.harvard.edu in Bing) The Invention of the American West by Richard Slotkin https://www.amazon.com/Regeneration-Through-Violence-Mythology-1600-1860/dp/0806132290 (amazon.com in Bing) National Park Service: French and Indian War Overview https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/french-and-indian-war.htm (nps.gov in Bing) History.com: French and Indian War https://www.history.com/topics/native-american-history/french-and-indian-war (history.com in Bing) Native American and Indigenous Studies Association (NAISA) https://naisa.org Smithsonian NMAI: Native Representation in Literature https://americanindian.si.edu (americanindian.si.edu in Bing) The White Man’s Indian by Robert Berkhofer https://www.amazon.com/White-Mans-Indian-Images-American/dp/0674957867 (amazon.com in Bing) Roger Ebert Review of the 1992 Film https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-last-of-the-mohicans-1992 (rogerebert.com in Bing) The New Yorker: Revisiting the Novel https://www.newyorker.com/books/page-turner/revisiting-the-last-of-the-mohicans (newyorker.com in Bing) BFI: Michael Mann’s Adaptation https://www.bfi.org.uk ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Who Are Native Americans? How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation? What is Thanksgiving? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Walz Who Was Alex Pretti? Judge orders ICE chief to appear in court or risk contempt | AP News Greg Bovino, architect of Trump's immigration sweeps, departs Minneapolis | AP News Why Rhode Island might ditch its Mr. Potato Head license plates | AP News TikTok settles just before social media addiction trial to begin - BBC News Seahawks, Patriots set to meet in Super Bowl rematch - CBS News Composer Philip Glass drops Kennedy Center world premiere over Trump takeover | Reuters . Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 empires 08:51 - Taxation without representation 17:21 - The revolution for social mobility 25:48 - Shaping American identity 29:27 - Key battles 34:12 - A mutual enemy 39:22 - The defining moments in America's victory 45:06 - Impact of independence on marginalised groups 49:29 - Liberty and equality for some ... Additional Resources: Encyclopedia Britannica: Timeline of the American Revolution — Detailed chronology and major themes American Battlefield Trust: Revolution Timeline — Comprehensive timeline, maps, major battles Library of Congress: Revolution Primary Sources — Original documents and teaching resources Have Fun With History: 10 Most Important People in the American Revolution — In-depth profiles and legacy discussions Mount Vernon: 10 Facts About the Revolutionary War — Focus on George Washington’s leadership and decision-making American Revolution.org: Best Primary Sources — Diaries, letters, maps, memoirs, political cartoons Khan Academy: Philosophical Foundations of the Revolution — Enlightenment, natural rights, social contract History Education Foundation: Key Ideas of the American Revolution — Summarizes liberty, equality, self-governance, republicanism Fiveable: Philosophical Foundations Study Guide — Detailed overview of major intellectual influences JSTOR: The American Revolution, A Philosophical Interpretation — Academic deep dive into the ideological legacy American Battlefield Trust: France in the American Revolution — Military alliance background, impact, and aftermath World History Encyclopedia: French Involvement — Social, financial, and diplomatic dimensions Smithsonian: The Impact of the Revolution Abroad — Influence in Europe, global response American Battlefield Trust: Battle Facts and Summaries — Maps, analyses, and narratives Ideological Origins of the American Revolution — Enlightenment and revolutionary ideology Patrick Henry — Iconic oratory and the Constitution Valley Forge — Hardship and transformation The Revolution's African American Soldiers — Untold stories of military service Women and the Constitutional Moment of 1787 — Gender, citizenship, and constitutional debates American Revolution.org Primary Sources — First-person narratives, letters, cartoons, and maps Schoolshistory.org.uk: American Revolution Primary Sources — British and colonial perspectives, visual collections 10 Best American Revolution Podcasts To Follow — Discover more expert interviews and stories Ben Franklin’s World: Official Podcast Homepage — Full episode archive, show notes, and guest bios ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan? Is America an Empire? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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, and One 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 Independent The exchange of messages between Norway's prime minister and President Trump | Reuters Keir Starmer about to hold emergency press conference Trump Shares Map of US Including Greenland, Canada, Venezuela - Newsweek Congress passes $24.4 billion NASA budget, rejecting Trump's deep cuts As Musk works to slash federal spending, his own firms have received billions in government contracts - ABC News The Planetary Society Army has put 1,500 soldiers on standby for possible Minnesota deployment | AP News Multiple monkeys on the loose in St. Louis | AP News Supreme Court weighs Trump's firing of the Fed's Lisa Cook by social media | Reuters Fed Chair Jerome Powell stands up to Trump : NPR . Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Perry Rose Kennedy: The Life and Times of a Political Matriarch by Barbara Perry Miller Center: JFK Life Before the Presidency Miller Center: Domestic Affairs Miller Center: Impact and Legacy JFK Library: Life of John F. Kennedy JFK Library: PT-109 JFK Library: The 1960 Election JFK Library: The New Frontier National Archives: JFK in Congress JFK Library: Civil Rights History.com: JFK and Marilyn Monroe History Hit: JFK’s Affairs History Hit: Camelot Encyclopedia Britannica: John F. Kennedy Britannica: New Frontier JFK Assassination and Conspiracy Theories National Archives: 1960 Election Results Miller Center: Barbara Perry University of Virginia: Barbara Perry CV and Bio Political Dictionary: Camelot JFK Library: The Space Program Rice University: JFK Moon Speech Miller Center: JFK and the Space Race ... 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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Smith Christmas Past by Brian Earl The Modern Christmas in America: A Cultural History of Gift Giving by Williams Waits The Commercialization of the Calendar: American Holidays and the Culture of Consumption Christmas in America: A History by Penne L. Restad How the Puritans Banned Christmas. Yankee Magazine. Colonial Williamsburg ‘The Twelve Myths of Christmas’ and Early American Christmas traditions An Early American Christmas The Oxford Handbook of Christmas – “Commercialism and Consumerism.” John Schmalzbauer. [Oxford Academic, 2020]. Exploring capitalism, disenchantment, enchantment, and debates on secular/commercial Christmas. The Commercialization of the Calendar: American Holidays and the Culture of Consumption, 1870–1930 by Leigh Schmidt The Golden Age of Department Stores at Christmas by The Retro Network A Brief History of Commercializing Christmas by Tim Harford Brand Vision: Best 50 Christmas Marketing Campaigns of All Time 20 Holiday Advertising Campaigns That Revolutionized Marketing The Artist Behind the Coca-Cola Santa Claus Haddon Sundblom and the Coca-Cola Santas Christmas as Cyclical Repetition - Easy Sociology Capitalism and the Holidays: How Money Grows on Christmas Trees Christmas over-consumption: Why we shop the way we do (even climate activists!) A Conscious Christmas: Rethinking Consumerism and Supporting Social En The Christmas spirit: is it now about consumerism or caring? ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What is the War on Christmas? How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie What's the History of Christmas in America? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Smith Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys Smith Selling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthy by Vaughn Joy Old Santeclaus with Much Delight: The Children's Friend: A New-Year's Present, to the Little Ones from Five to Twelve 'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore A Mischievous St. Nick from the Smithsonian American Art Museum Santa Claus (1898) A Little Girl Who Did Not Believe in Santa Claus (1907) Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus (1897) Is There a Santa Claus? By Jacob Riis Miracle On 34th Street 1947/ 1994 Double Pack The Little Messenger Birds: Or, the Chimes of the Silver Bells by Caroline Butler Thomas Nast - Hello!, Santa Claus! (originally published in "Harper's Weekly," December 20, 1884) - The Metropolitan Museum of Art ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What is the War on Christmas? How to Make a Hollywood Christmas Movie What's the History of Christmas in America? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special festive bonus episode, Liam & 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 Movie What's the History of Christmas in America? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Williams Jody Williams – Biographical - NobelPrize.org Jody Williams | Peace Jam Jody Williams: A realistic vision for world peace | TED Talk Homepage - ICBLCMC NobelPrize.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: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 History History of American comics - Wikipedia History Of American Comics: From Victorian Roots To The Modern Multimedia Era (Toons Mag) American comic book - Wikipedia Histoire de Mr. Vieux Bois – Wikipedia + Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records: First Comic A History of the Comic Book - Random History Golden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern Ages Comic Book Ages Explained - Biowars Silver Age Comics - Comic Buying Center The Flash: The Silver Age - Slings & Arrows Modern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia 20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollect Fandom, Endurance, and Collecting Why Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News Network U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View Research Cross-Media Adaptations The Impact of Comic Books on Popular Culture - Comicbooklist.com From Pop Art Panels to Record Breaking Blockbusters - The Science Survey The Transformation of Comic Books Into Movies - WhatsAfterTheMovie.com A Brief History of Comic Book Movies - Springer Representation and Diversity Kamala Khan - Wikipedia (Ms. Marvel) Black Panther First Appearance - Comic Book Addicts Julian Chambliss and Comics Scholarship Julian C. Chambliss – Michigan State University Ages of Heroes, Eras of Men – Cambridge Scholars Publishing/Open Library, Open Library Comics Studies as an Academic Field The Oxford Handbook of Comic Book Studies - Oxford University Press, Amazon UK The Power of Comics: History, Form & Culture - Duncan & Smith Digital Transformation, Webcomics, and New Platforms The Rise of Digital Comics: Trends and Technologies - electricomics.net The Rise of Webcomics Explained - Toons Mag Evolution of Digital Comics and Graphic Novels - EMB Global Other Notable Reference Titles Comic Book Nation: The Transformation of Youth Culture in America – Bradford W. Wright Of Comics and Men: A Cultural History of American Comic Books – Jean-Paul Gabilliet Seal of Approval. The History of the Comics Code – Amy Kiste Nyberg Superhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre – Peter Coogan The Dark Age: Grim, Great & Gimmicky Post-Modern Comics – Mark Voger Baby Boomer Comics: The Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Comic Books of the 1960s! – Craig Shutt The Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere – Paul Sassiene ... 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? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 History History of American comics - Wikipedia History Of American Comics: From Victorian Roots To The Modern Multimedia Era (Toons Mag) American comic book - Wikipedia Histoire de Mr. Vieux Bois – Wikipedia + Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records: First Comic A History of the Comic Book - Random History Golden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern Ages Comic Book Ages Explained - Biowars Silver Age Comics - Comic Buying Center The Flash: The Silver Age - Slings & Arrows Modern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia 20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollect Fandom, Endurance, and Collecting Why Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News Network U.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View Research Cross-Media Adaptations The Impact of Comic Books on Popular Culture - Comicbooklist.com From Pop Art Panels to Record Breaking Blockbusters - The Science Survey The Transformation of Comic Books Into Movies - WhatsAfterTheMovie.com A Brief History of Comic Book Movies - Springer Representation and Diversity Kamala Khan - Wikipedia (Ms. Marvel) Black Panther First Appearance - Comic Book Addicts Julian Chambliss and Comics Scholarship Julian C. Chambliss – Michigan State University Ages of Heroes, Eras of Men – Cambridge Scholars Publishing/Open Library, Open Library Comics Studies as an Academic Field The Oxford Handbook of Comic Book Studies - Oxford University Press, Amazon UK The Power of Comics: History, Form & Culture - Duncan & Smith Digital Transformation, Webcomics, and New Platforms The Rise of Digital Comics: Trends and Technologies - electricomics.net The Rise of Webcomics Explained - Toons Mag Evolution of Digital Comics and Graphic Novels - EMB Global Other Notable Reference Titles Comic Book Nation: The Transformation of Youth Culture in America – Bradford W. Wright Of Comics and Men: A Cultural History of American Comic Books – Jean-Paul Gabilliet Seal of Approval. The History of the Comics Code – Amy Kiste Nyberg Superhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre – Peter Coogan The Dark Age: Grim, Great & Gimmicky Post-Modern Comics – Mark Voger Baby Boomer Comics: The Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Comic Books of the 1960s! – Craig Shutt The Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere – Paul Sassiene ... 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? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices