America: The Story of the USA

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

America: The Story of the USA episodes

May 08, 2025 The Future of America: A History Podcast
As we all adjust to a rapidly changing America, and the impact this is having around the world, we've taken some time out from the podcast to reflect on exactly what we're doing, and how we can continue to do it appropriately and effectively.
We know that at the moment, it's as important to look to the future as it is to understand the past. So our podcast needs to keep up with that, drive important conversations, and continue to provide value to you, our listener.
What that looks like is different now to when we launched this in 2023.
But we promise: we will be back.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
9 min
April 19, 2025BONUS: Pushback Against Trump's Anti-Immigrant Agenda
In this bonus episode, I'm joined again by Will McCorkle from the College of Charleston, following our recording of 'How Has Immigration Shaped American Idenitty?'
We had such a blast in our previous episode, but there’s just so much more to unpack! We’re taking a closer look at Trump’s ever-elusive border wall and whether it’s ever going to be a reality or just a big ol’ distraction. Spoiler alert: it’s a bit of both! Plus, we dig into the wild world of birthright citizenship and what it actually means, because let’s face it, some folks don’t quite get it. Trust me, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and maybe a few "Did they really just say that?" moments, so buckle up.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Will McCorkle, an assistant professor of educational foundations and social studies education at the College of Charleston. His research focuses on the intersection of nationalism, immigration, and education with a particular focus on more marginalized migrant communities.
...
Highlights from this episode:
The podcast dives deep into how immigration has shaped American identity, a topic that is both timely and critical.
We discuss the infamous Trump wall, comparing its reality to Biden's border policies, and how both are more symbolic than effective.
Birthright citizenship is examined, revealing the complexities of the 14th Amendment amidst current political pressures to revoke it.
The conversation touches on the importance of public pushback against extreme immigration policies, citing historical examples like family separations.
We explore the current political climate, emphasizing the need for checks and balances in government to prevent abuses of power.
The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to engage in advocacy, highlighting the power of collective resistance.

...
Additional Resources:
William McCorkle – The Conversation
Immigration and U.S. citizenship | USAGov
Six big immigration changes under Trump - and their impact so far - BBC News
US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000 | Pew Research Center
The impact of immigration on cultural diversity - Immigration & Residency
Legal Immigration: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)
Practice Mercy
...
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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
22 min
April 15, 2025Who is J.P. Morgan?
This week, on the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, which was 113 years ago today, we’re shining a light on one of its biggest investors; a man who is as controversial as he was transformative to the future of America. The railroad, the steel industry, the treasury - all impacted greatly by his involvement and investment. So in this episode we’re going to explore the rise of one of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in American history, as I ask… who is J.P. Morgan?
...
Special guest for this episode:
Jean Strouse, one of the preeminent biographers of J.P. Morgan and author of Morgan: American Financier. Her accomplished career includes being President of the Society of American Historians, and a consultant to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
...
Highlights from this episode:
On the anniversary of the Titanic's sinking, we dive into J.P. Morgan's controversial yet transformative impact on America's future, especially in finance and industry.
Morgan was a key player in the railroad and steel industries, fundamentally changing the financial landscape of the United States during his time.
Despite his immense influence, J.P. Morgan's wealth was debated; he was seen as not as rich as other contemporaries like Rockefeller, which adds complexity to his legacy.
His early life was marked by privilege and education, shaping his future as a powerful banker who managed chaotic markets with a unique approach and keen understanding of finance.
Morgan's contributions included organizing the creation of U.S. Steel and stabilizing financial crises, showcasing his dual role as a profit-driven businessman and a national stabilizer.
Ultimately, J.P. Morgan's legacy is mixed; he is viewed as both a robber baron and a pivotal figure in America's economic development, leaving an imprint on culture and industry that persists today.

...
Additional Resources:
Morgan: American Financier by Jean Strouse
...
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
45 min
April 12, 2025BONUS: Is Social Media a Blessing or a Curse for Democracy?
In this lively bonus episode, we hit the rewind button to dig deeper into our earlier talk on the Internet’s influence on American politics, focusing on the undeniable role of social media. Liam and the brilliant Jennifer Stromer-Galley dive into the vibrant and sometimes volatile world of Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit.
They contemplate whether social media is merely a tool for political communication, or if it has morphed into something far more complex, shaping narratives and influencing outcomes in ways we’re just beginning to understand.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a Professor in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. She is former president of the Association of Internet Researchers, and she is author of the widely-acclaimed book Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age.
...
Highlights from this episode:
In today's episode, we dove deep into how social media, especially platforms like Reddit and TikTok, has reshaped the way we consume news and engage in political discourse.
We discussed how Trump and Musk are leveraging social media to influence American politics, creating both opportunities and concerns for democracy.
Reddit's unique community-focused nature allows for more extensive discussions, setting it apart from quicker, more superficial platforms like Twitter.
We also touched on the impact of campaign financing in politics, highlighting how money matters more than ever in shaping electoral outcomes and candidate viability.

...
Additional Resources:
Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age by Jennifer Stromer-Galley
Jennifer Stromer-Galley - iSchool | Syracuse University
Social Media: Are TikTok videos the way to win an election? - BBC News
12 States With Teens' Social Media Regulation- Is Yours One of Them?
Facebook, Cambridge Analytica scandal: Everything you need to know
...
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?
How Has the Internet Shaped American Politics?
...
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
19 min
April 08, 2025How Has Immigration Shaped American Identity?
With the looming threat of mass deportations and the revocation of birthright citizenship, the atmosphere surrounding immigration in the United States is thick with uncertainty. In this episode, we dive into the complexities that shape the immigration debate, from passionate advocacy to fervent opposition.
We shed light on the historical context of immigration in America, revealing how deeply interconnected it is with the nation's identity, and we explore the reasons behind the polarized views on immigration and examine how current political climates can drastically alter public discourse.
We discuss the historical waves of immigration that have shaped the country, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs of immigrant communities, and how these narratives challenge the nativist tendencies that sometimes dominate the conversation.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Will McCorkle, an assistant professor of educational foundations and social studies education at the College of Charleston. His research focuses on the intersection of nationalism, immigration, and education with a particular focus on more marginalized migrant communities.
...
Highlights from this episode:
This episode dives deep into the complex landscape of U.S. immigration policies and their societal impacts.
We discuss how immigration has shaped American identity, highlighting both support and opposition to migrant communities.
The tension between America's ideals of freedom and the reality of immigration enforcement is a key theme in our conversation.
It's fascinating how historical waves of immigration have influenced U.S. demographics and fueled the debate on immigration today.
Understanding the legal pathways for immigrants reveals a complicated system often inaccessible for many seeking refuge.
We also touch on the misconceptions surrounding immigrant crime rates, countering them with actual statistics and historical context.

...
Additional Resources:
William McCorkle – The Conversation
Immigration and U.S. citizenship | USAGov
Six big immigration changes under Trump - and their impact so far - BBC News
US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000 | Pew Research Center
The impact of immigration on cultural diversity - Immigration & Residency
Legal Immigration: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)
Practice Mercy
...
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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
40 min
April 05, 2025 BONUS: The Rise of Fascism with Ece Temelkuran [FEED DROP via IF YOU WERE IN CHARGE]
On this bonus episode, we're doing something a little different, and sharing another podcast doing some great things.
If You Were in Charge features global peace strategist Sanam Naraghi Anderlini talking to the frontline doers and imaginers—activists, organizers, and peacebuilders—whose lived experience, courage, and ideas are reshaping what’s possible. People who, if they were in charge, could change the world.
In their first episode of season two, Sanam speaks to Ece Temelkuran, renowned author of How to Lose a Country: The 7 Steps from Democracy to Dictatorship, which explores the mechanisms of autocracy and the decline of democratic principles.
.
If You Were In Charge is brought to you by the Bjian Ghaisar Foundation
And ICAN International Civil Society Action Network
.
ICAN’s newsletter: https://icanpeacework.org/2025/03/sign-up-to-icans-newsletter/
.
Original Music, Little Monster Media
Executive Producer: Pearse Lynch
This is an Africa Digital Audio production
.
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
1 hr 3 min
April 01, 2025How Has the Internet Shaped American Politics?
This week, following an election cycle dominated by misinformation, AI, social media, and a… well, strange blossoming relationship between a Silicon Valley billionaire and the 47th President, I think it’s time to look closer at the relationship between technology and politics. How has social media impacted US politics? How is this being regulated? And ultimately, how has the internet changed American politics?
...
Special guest for this episode:
Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a Professor in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. She is former president of the Association of Internet Researchers, and she is author of the widely-acclaimed book Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age.
...
Highlights from this episode:
In this episode, we explored the complex relationship between technology and politics, particularly focusing on social media's influence in shaping political narratives and public opinion.
Jennifer Stroma Galley shared insights on how social media platforms, especially during election cycles, have become battlegrounds for misinformation and targeted political advertising.
We discussed the impact of tech giants like Elon Musk and their affiliations with political candidates, raising questions about the ethical implications of such relationships.
The episode delves into the evolution of political fundraising through social media, highlighting how candidates like Trump have mastered the art of leveraging online platforms for financial support.
We highlighted the importance of media literacy in today's information age, as the cacophony of voices online makes it challenging for individuals to discern fact from fiction.
Listeners were reminded that while social media can empower grassroots movements, it also poses risks of misinformation and ideological echo chambers that can threaten democratic processes

...
Additional Resources:
Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age by Jennifer Stromer-Galley
Jennifer Stromer-Galley - iSchool | Syracuse University
Social Media: Are TikTok videos the way to win an election? - BBC News
12 States With Teens' Social Media Regulation- Is Yours One of Them?
Facebook, Cambridge Analytica scandal: Everything you need to know
...
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
47 min
March 29, 2025BONUS: Is Abraham Lincoln the Great Emancipator or Just Another Racist?
In this special bonus episode, following our previous episode What is Emancipation?, we discuss the often overlooked issue of Abraham Lincoln's own prejudice, and how this changed over the course of the civil war.
Plus, our guest discusses his own research on Sherman's March, and his upcoming biography on General Sherman himself.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Bennett Parten, an Assistant Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, and the author of ‘Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation’

...
Highlights from this episode:
Emancipation and Reconstruction are massive topics that deserve in-depth exploration and discussion.
Abraham Lincoln's complicated relationship with race reveals a man whose views evolved over time.
Lincoln's early beliefs included ideas of racial superiority and colonization, reflecting the prejudices of his era.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and how perspectives on figures like Lincoln can change.

...
Additional Resources:
Somewhere Toward Freedom: Sherman's March and the Story of America's Largest Emancipation by Bennett Parten
Emancipation Proclamation (1863) | National Archives
...
And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Why Did America Ban Slavery?
How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?
Who is Frederick Douglass?
What Does Kindred Tell Us About Plantation Life?
Who is Harriet Tubman?
...
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
15 min
March 25, 2025What is the History of Education in America?
Ever wondered what American schools really look like beyond the glossy TV portrayals? Well, grab your backpack because we’re diving deep into the quirky, complex world of the U.S. education system!
From the early dame schools of the 1600s to the well-oiled machinery of today’s public school system, our guest gives us the lowdown on how American education evolved. We chat about how local communities shaped schools, the rise of the federal government’s influence, and the tug of war between state and federal control.
What’s the deal with that 10% of funding from Uncle Sam? And why do folks cling to local control like it's the last slice of pizza at a party? Spoiler alert: it’s all about community identity!
And let’s not forget the elephant in the room—why does the U.S. rank 31st in education compared to other countries? We dig into how local pride can sometimes blind us to the need for improvement.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Jonathan Zimmerman, a Professor of History of Education at the University of Pennsylvannia, and has a particular interest in how political and social movements shape education. He has also written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and others.
...
Highlights from this episode:
The American education system has evolved significantly since colonial times, with local communities playing a crucial role in shaping schools.
Federal involvement in education really kicked off with the establishment of the Department of Education under Jimmy Carter in the late 1970s.
Local control of schools can empower communities but may also lead to significant disparities in education quality across the country.
The No Child Left Behind Act mandated testing and accountability, but its execution often led to absurd outcomes, like inflated proficiency rates in certain states.
Extracurricular activities, from sports to drama clubs, are seen as integral to the American schooling experience and can enhance deeper learning.
American schools are not just about academics; they're community hubs where various social functions and services come together.

...
Additional Resources:
Education Rankings by Country 2024
The difference between the Every Student Succeeds Act and No Child Left Behind
Whose America?: Culture Wars in the Public Schools by Jonathan Zimmerman
In Search of Deeper Learning: The Quest to Remake the American High School by Jal Mehta and Sarah Fine
...
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
40 min
March 22, 2025BONUS: The Abortion Paradox in America
In this special bonus episode, Professor Rebecca Fraser and Rev. Caleb Lines stick around for a chat following the main episode, Why is Abortion So Controversial in America, which you can listen to in full right now.
They discuss the interesting contradiction in states largely voting for reproductive rights on the same day they re-elect Trump to the White House.
Plus, Caleb discusses how he balances his life as a clergyman with his newfound fame as a social media influencer.
...
Special guest for this episode:
Rebecca Fraser, a professor of American history and culture at the University of East Anglia. Her research focuses on discourses of gender, race, and sexuality, particularly in 19th century America.
Rev. Caleb Lines, the Senior Minister of University Christian Church in San Diego, the Co-Executive Director of ProgressiveChristianity.org, and the Co-Host for The Moonshine Jesus Show.
...
Highlights from this episode:
In the podcast, we explored the surprising contradiction between political trends and voter preferences regarding reproductive rights in America.
Despite the election of a conservative president, many voters actually supported measures to protect reproductive rights in various states.
The discussion highlighted how generational perspectives on reproductive rights can influence voting behavior and community support systems.
It's essential to recognize that people's daily struggles, like paying rent, often overshadow their concerns about abortion rights and reproductive health.
We also touched on the importance of women's networks in supporting reproductive choices and how these networks can empower future generations.
Lastly, we discussed how the rhetoric surrounding reproductive health often conflicts with the actual beliefs of the majority of people in the country.

...
Additional Resources:
READ: Abortion: What does overturn of Roe v Wade mean? - BBC News
READ: Caleb Lines Website
WATCH: Why Do Religious Groups Care About Abortion? - Caleb Lines via TikTok
READ: 10 States Put Abortion Rights on the Ballot This Year. 7 Voted to Enshrine Protections
LISTEN: The Moonshine Jesus Show
READ: Analysis: How Abortion Rights Are Linked to Gender Equality | Best States | U.S. News
...
And if you like this episode, you might also love:
What Do We Get Wrong About the Civil Rights Movement?
What Challenge Does Black Lives Matter Present to America?
What is the Civil Rights Act?
...
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

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.

Share America: The Story of the USA

Sign up to save your podcasts

America: The Story of the USA

America: The Story of the USA episodes

About America: The Story of the USA