America: The Story of the USA

By Liam Heffernan | A Mercury PodcastSociety & Culture News Politics History

America: The Story of the USA episodes

September 09, 2025What is the History of California?
On this day in 1850, the thirty-first state of the Union is admitted. So today, on its 175th birthday, I want to find out a little more about its history before statehood, the reasons why it became an important piece of land for the US, and how it grew to become not just one of the largest states, but one of the largest economies in the world, as I ask… what is the history of California?
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Special guest for this episode:
Patricia Nelson Limerick, a Professor of History of the American West at University of Colorado Boulder, formerly President of the Organization of American Historians, American Studies Association, the Western History Association, and the Society of American Historians, and Vice President of the Teaching Division of the American Historical Association, and co-founded the Center of the American West. And in 2015 she was appointed, by nomination from President Obama, to the National Council on the Humanities.
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Highlights from this episode:
California's admission as the 31st state in 1850 marked a significant turning point in American history.
The diversity of California's native populations and their rich cultural practices shaped the land long before statehood.
The Gold Rush of 1849 spurred a massive influx of settlers, fundamentally altering California's demographic landscape.
California's environment is incredibly varied, offering everything from deserts to stunning coastlines that attracted settlers.
The state's history is a complex tapestry of colonization, indigenous displacement, and the evolving narrative of American expansionism.
California's legacy includes ongoing issues of racial inequality and the enduring presence of its indigenous and Hispanic populations.

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Additional Resources:
Malki Museum
Dorothy Ramon Learning Center – We save & share Native American cultures
History of Native California
California Geography Essentials | Visit California
Who is Junipero Serra? | Serra
The Dominguez and Escalante Expedition - Dinosaur National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848) | National Archives
Freedom's Frontier: California and the Struggle over Unfree Labor, Emancipation, and Reconstruction by Stacey L. Smith
The Age of the Borderlands: Indians, Slaves, and the Limits of Manifest Destiny, 1790–1850 by Andrew C. Isenberg
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.captivate.fm/episode/what-is-the-history-of-california-patricia-nelson-limerick
Who Are Native Americans?
How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?
What is Thanksgiving?
...
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59 min
September 06, 2025BONUS: Houdini, London and the Unpickable Lock
This bonus episode delves deeper into the life and performances of the legendary magician Harry Houdini, with a focus on one of his most remarkable feats, at the London Hippodrome, where he was challenges to unpick the world's most unpickable lock.
We explore the buildup to this defining moment, including the public's anticipation and the media's portrayal of Houdini as he faced this daunting challenge.
...
Special guest for this episode:
John Cox, a lifelong Houdini fan and founder of Wild About Harry, who has written extensively about him, and is currently working on a definitive chronology of Houdini's life and career.
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Highlights from this episode:

...
Additional Resources:
WILD ABOUT HARRY
Escaping Obscurity - The Travel Diary of Harry Houdini, 1897-1899 by John Cox
Houdini!!!: The Career of Ehrich Weiss by Ken Silverman
...
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: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
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10 min
September 04, 2025IN THE MAKING: Is America Heading Towards a Trump Dictatorship?
In this special solo edition of In The Making, I explore the troubling signs that suggest America might be inching towards a dictatorship under Donald Trump, and lay out the evidence indicating how he’s strategically surrounding himself with loyalists, silencing critics, and altering voter laws to skew the electorate in his favor.
It’s alarming how these actions, which might seem trivial at first glance, collectively paint a picture of a dangerous political landscape where dissent is stifled and loyalty is enforced. I discuss how these tactics echo historical precedents of authoritarian regimes and why it’s critical for us, as citizens, to pay attention.
This episode serves as a wake-up call to recognize the mounting threats to democracy and the importance of speaking up before it’s too late.
DISCLAIMER: All views in this episode belong to Liam Heffernan, and are not directly endorsed by any individual, company, institution or advertiser affiliated with the podcast.
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Highlights from this episode:
The current political climate is alarming, as it reflects a slow progression towards authoritarianism.
Trump's administration is marked by the appointment of loyalists, raising red flags about potential dictatorship.
Efforts to silence dissenting voices are evident, showcasing a deliberate strategy to control the narrative.
The introduction of strict voter ID laws could disproportionately affect minority voters, skewing electoral outcomes.
There's a concerning pattern of eliminating critics and minorities, reminiscent of historical dictatorships.
If unchecked, the gradual erosion of democratic norms may lead to a troubling future for America.

...
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]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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21 min
September 02, 2025What is the US Treasury?
This week, we're diving deep into the world of money and the pivotal role the U.S. Treasury plays in shaping the American economy.
Behind every success and failure in American history lies a story deeply intertwined with greed, power, and the all-important question of how money is spent. We explore who really decides how America manages its finances and what that means for everyday Americans, as I ask... what is the US Treasury?
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Special guest for this episode:
Sean Vanatta, a Senior Lecturer in Financial History and Policy at the University of Glasgow, with an interest in US history and the political economy of finance. His books include Plastic Capitalism: Banks, Credit Cards, and the End of Financial Control and Private Finance, Public Power: A History of Bank Supervision in America
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Highlights from this episode:
In this episode, we dive deep into the role of the U.S. Treasury and its impact on the American economy and society, which extends beyond mere financial management.
Understanding the history of the U.S. Treasury reveals its foundational importance in shaping the financial stability of the nation since its inception.
We discuss how decisions made by the U.S. Treasury influence the everyday lives of Americans, from tax policies to social services and the overall economy.
The complexities of money management and economic policy illustrate the balance the Treasury must strike between public welfare and fiscal responsibility, especially during crises.
Throughout history, the U.S. Treasury has played a critical role in financial crises, stepping in as a stabilizing force to protect the economy and American citizens.
The interplay between federal authority and state interests continues to shape the operations of the Treasury, reflecting ongoing tensions in American governance and finance.

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Additional Resources:
Plastic Capitalism by Sean Vanatta
Private Finance, Public Power by Sean Vanatta
Consumer borrowing was heavily restricted in 1940s to curb inflation – it’s time we did it again by Sean Vanatta
The First Bank of the United States | Federal Reserve History
The Independent Treasury: Origins, Rationale, and Record, 1846-1861
...
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]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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50 min
August 30, 2025BONUS: What Would You Do in a Gold Rush?
In this bonus episode, we unravel the age-old question of who decided gold was worth something in the first place. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about its shiny allure; there’s a whole lot of history and economics at play.
We also reflect on the risks and rewards of that era, pondering what we might have done if we were chasing gold back in 1848. From the fleeting nature of mining towns to the bizarre modern-day gold rushes, we discuss how the legacy of the Gold Rush still resonates in today's society, shaping our perceptions of wealth and value.
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Special guest for this episode:
Stephen Tuffnell, a historian of the global and imperial history of the 19th century United States from the University of Oxford, whose research interests include American emigration and the history of commodities such as gold and ice. He’s also the co-editor of A Global History of Gold Rushes.
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Highlights from this episode:
The California Gold Rush was a massive event that transformed the American economy and society in profound ways.
Gold's value has evolved over centuries, heavily influenced by cultural perceptions and historical events like the Gold Standard.
Investors often turn to gold during economic uncertainty, emphasizing its perceived stability and enduring allure.
The Gold Rush led to a boom in ghost towns across California, remnants of the fleeting mining frenzy during the late 19th century.
The discussion highlights how the legacy of the Gold Rush continues to shape modern American culture and economic practices.
The podcast reveals the risks and realities of the Gold Rush, particularly for those who supplied miners rather than mined for gold themselves.

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Additional Resources:
A Global History of Gold Rushes (Volume 25) by Benjamin Mountford and Stephen Tuffnell
https://dayhist.com/events/california-gold-rush-1848
https://www.mininghalloffame.org/hall-of-fame/james-wilson-marshall
https://americanhistory.si.edu/explore/stories/striking-it-rich-american-gold-rushes-early-19th-century
An American Genocide: The United States and the California Indian Catastrophe, 1846-1873 by Benjamin Madley
Calisphere: The deeper you look, the more you discover.
...
And if you like this episode, you might also love:
When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States
Is America an Empire?
...
Contact us: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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12 min
August 26, 2025Who is Harry Houdini?
Would you throw yourself over Niagara Falls in a barrel? Well, this week, we’re talking about the man who, allegedly, did just that. His performances have become the stuff of legend, including the one he did on this very day in 1907, escaping from chains underwater in San Francisco. So I want to know more about the life, career, and legacy of one of the greatest showmen in American history, as I ask… who is Harry Houdini?
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Special guest for this episode:
John Cox, a lifelong Houdini fan and founder of Wild About Harry, who has written extensively about him, and is currently working on a definitive chronology of Houdini's life and career.
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Highlights from this episode:
Harry Houdini, born as Eric Weiss, transformed his life from modest beginnings in Hungary to becoming one of America's most legendary entertainers.
His innovative approach to escapology combined athleticism with theatricality, creating a unique style that captivated audiences everywhere.
Houdini's understanding of media and publicity was exceptional, making him a master of self-promotion and audience engagement.
The relationship with his wife, Bess, played a significant role in his life and career, providing him with both personal and professional support throughout their time together.
Despite his fame, Houdini struggled with the loss of his mother, which deeply affected his motivations and sense of purpose in life.
Houdini's legacy endures today, as his name has become synonymous with magic and impossible feats, reflecting his lasting impact on performance art.

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Additional Resources:
WILD ABOUT HARRY
Escaping Obscurity - The Travel Diary of Harry Houdini, 1897-1899 by John Cox
Houdini!!!: The Career of Ehrich Weiss by Ken Silverman
...
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: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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49 min
August 23, 2025BONUS: The Legacy of Emperor Norton
This bonus episode delves deeper into the intriguing subject of Emperor Norton, a figure who declared himself the Emperor of the United States, and the cultural implications of such a declaration.
We touch on the unique nature of America’s relationship with monarchy and whether such a concept could ever take root in the country, and discuss how Emperor Norton's self-appointment was not one of narcissism but rather a call for unity and order during a time of tumult.
We reflect on Norton’s legacy and his genuine desire to serve the public, which resonates through stories of his life and the impact he had on those around him.
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Special guest for this episode:
John Lumea, the founder of The Emperor Norton Trust, who describes himself as a ‘champion of beautiful losers’. He studied philosophy and religion at St. Andrews in Scotland, and now resides in Boston. Today he is a writer and activist and his work has been covered in major publications including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and the LA Times
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Highlights from this episode:
This bonus episode deepens the discussion on Emperor Norton, a unique figure in American history.
Emperor Norton declared himself ruler to address perceived chaos, not to establish a monarchy.
The public's affection for Emperor Norton is evident, as thousands attended his funeral in 1880.
We explored the notion of leadership and authority in the context of American democracy.
Emperor Norton aimed to unite people and bring order during turbulent times in the nation.
Despite his self-declaration, Emperor Norton was not a typical monarch, but rather a visionary for change.

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Additional Resources:
The Emperor Norton Trust | Research, Education, Advocacy
Emperor Norton: San Francisco's Beloved Eccentric Ruler of the Gold Rush Era - Sick History
Who is Joshua Norton, a South African immigrant who once declared himself emperor of the United States? - The Economic Times
...
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: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
11 min
August 19, 2025What Was the California Gold Rush?
On this day in 1848, the New York Herald published an article that would change America forever.
They reported on a man named James Marshall who, while building a saw mill in California, just outside what we now know as Sacramento, found gold flakes in the river. What followed was a stampede of opportunistic Americans moving west to chase their American dreams, in what became the largest gold rush in the country’s history.
This week, I want to know why it was so significant, and how it changed the United States, as I ask… what was the California gold rush?
...
Special guest for this episode:
Stephen Tuffnell, a historian of the global and imperial history of the 19th century United States from the University of Oxford, whose research interests include American emigration and the history of commodities such as gold and ice. He’s also the co-editor of A Global History of Gold Rushes.
...
Highlights from this episode:
The California Gold Rush of 1848 marked a pivotal moment that transformed American society and economy significantly.
James Marshall's discovery of gold initiated a massive migration and an unprecedented pursuit of wealth across the country.
The rush not only shaped California's demographics but also had profound implications for indigenous populations and their displacement.
Media played a crucial role in stimulating the gold rush, creating a frenzy that spurred thousands to seek fortune in California.

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Additional Resources:
A Global History of Gold Rushes (Volume 25) by Benjamin Mountford and Stephen Tuffnell
https://dayhist.com/events/california-gold-rush-1848
https://www.mininghalloffame.org/hall-of-fame/james-wilson-marshall
https://americanhistory.si.edu/explore/stories/striking-it-rich-american-gold-rushes-early-19th-century
An American Genocide: The United States and the California Indian Catastrophe, 1846-1873 by Benjamin Madley
Calisphere: The deeper you look, the more you discover.
...
And if you like this episode, you might also love:
When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States
Is America an Empire?
...
Contact us: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

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45 min
August 16, 2025BONUS: Why Didn't Nixon Destroy the Watergate Tapes?
In this bonus episode, UCL's Professor Iwan Morgan, author of Nixon, discusses why the President refused to destroy the Oval Office tapes - the most incriminating piece of evidence that ultimately led to his resignation from the White House.
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Special guest for this episode:
Iwan Morgan, an emeritus professor of US Studies at University College London, and an expert on the US Presidency. His most recent books are Reagan: American Icon and FDR: Transforming the Presidency and Renewing America
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Highlights from this episode:
Nixon's downfall was significantly influenced by his desire to maintain a favorable legacy, which ironically led to his undoing.
The investigation into Watergate involved many key figures beyond Woodward and Bernstein, including the FBI and Congress.
Nixon's reluctance to destroy the incriminating tapes stemmed from his aspirations for greatness and historical legacy.
The role of the FBI in uncovering the Watergate scandal was crucial, as they were pivotal in tracing the hush money involved.
Deep Throat's identity remained a secret for over thirty years, revealing the complexities of the investigation into Watergate.
Ultimately, Nixon's actions during the Watergate scandal overshadowed his significant achievements in foreign policy and environmental protection.

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Additional Resources:
Nixon (Reputations Series) by Iwan Morgan
President Nixon and Watergate - Political change 1960-2000 - Eduqas - GCSE History Revision - Eduqas - BBC Bitesize
John Dean's Watergate Testimony 50 Years Later | Teaching American History
Burdick v. United States | 236 U.S. 79 (1915) | Justia U.S. Supreme Court Cente
...
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]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
13 min
August 12, 2025Who is the Emperor of the United States of America?
On this day in 1869, self-proclaimed Emperor Norton of the USA issued an order, abolishing the Democratic and Republican parties.
Confused? I’m not surprised. So this week we’re going to unpack one of the more bizarre and lesser talked about individuals in America, and why he still, to this day, has left an indelible mark on the country’s history, as I ask… who was the Emperor of the United States?
...
Special guest for this episode:
John Lumea, the founder of The Emperor Norton Trust, who describes himself as a ‘champion of beautiful losers’. He studied philosophy and religion at St. Andrews in Scotland, and now resides in Boston. Today he is a writer and activist and his work has been covered in major publications including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and the LA Times
...
Highlights from this episode:
Emperor Norton, originally Joshua Abraham Norton, declared himself Emperor of the United States in 1859, a title that was never officially recognized.
His early life in South Africa and migration to the U.S. remain largely a mystery, with few records detailing his journey and experiences.
Norton’s financial decline began after a series of poor business decisions in the commodities market, leading to his eventual bankruptcy.
Despite his eccentric self-declaration, Norton became a beloved figure in San Francisco, advocating for social justice and civil rights in a progressive manner.
The Emperor Norton Trust aims to preserve and promote the legacy of Norton, highlighting his contributions to American history and culture.
Records indicate that Norton's proclamations often addressed social issues of the time, showcasing him as a surprisingly progressive figure for his era.

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Additional Resources:
The Emperor Norton Trust | Research, Education, Advocacy
Emperor Norton: San Francisco's Beloved Eccentric Ruler of the Gold Rush Era - Sick History
Who is Joshua Norton, a South African immigrant who once declared himself emperor of the United States? - The Economic Times
...
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: [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email [email protected] and let's talk.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
48 min

About America: The Story of the USA

From the publisher's feed

SOTUS is your deep‑dive guide to how the United States became what it is today. From George Washington to Donald Trump, we unpack the people, places and events that shaped, and continue to shape, the nation’s identity.

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America: The Story of the USA

America: The Story of the USA episodes

About America: The Story of the USA