America: The Story of the USA

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

America: The Story of the USA episodes

December 03, 2024BONUS: Faith, Feminism, and the American South
In this bonus episode, we take a deeper look at the complex relationship between religion and American identity, particularly in the context of the Bible Belt, with help from Dr. Megan Hunt.
We discuss the stereotypes perpetuated by Hollywood, including the portrayal of the religious middle-class housewife, and how these depictions reflect broader societal issues in the South PLUS the controversial narrative presented in J.D. Vance's "Hillbilly Elegy," examining the implications of his portrayal of his background as he transitions into a political figure.
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Special guest for this episode:
Dr. Megan Hunt, a cultural historian of the modern United States at Edinburgh University, whose new book, Southern by the Grace of God, is available

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Highlights from this episode:
The Bible Belt is a complex cultural landscape deeply intertwined with American identity.
Historically, many settlers in North America sought religious freedom, shaping the region's character.
Post-World War II America saw a surge in overt religiosity as a political statement.
Media representations often reinforce stereotypes about religion and the Bible Belt in America.
The portrayal of Southern women in Hollywood reflects both cultural traditions and historical complexities.
J.D. Vance's 'Hillbilly Elegy' has sparked controversy for its portrayal of Appalachian identity.

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Additional Resources:
Southern by the Grace of God by Megan Hunt
Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance
https://www.dukeupress.edu/reconstructing-dixie
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States
Is America an Empire?
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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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14 min
December 01, 2024What is the Bible Belt?
America's Bible Belt, a term coined nearly a century ago, remains a significant cultural and political phenomenon, representing regions in the South and parts of the Midwest known for their strong evangelical Christian traditions.
In this episode, we dive into the origins and implications of this term, exploring how it encapsulates not just a geographical area but also a complex interplay of religion, politics, and societal stereotypes.
From its roots in H.L. Mencken's critical portrayal of the South during the 1920s, to how this perception continues to shape contemporary political rhetoric and cultural narratives, we explore the Bible Belt's association with conservative values and white supremacy, and the ongoing relevance of the Bible Belt in understanding America's evolving identity and the challenges posed by its enduring stereotypes.
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Special guest for this episode:
Dr. Megan Hunt, a cultural historian of the modern United States at Edinburgh University, whose new book, Southern by the Grace of God, is available
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Highlights from this episode:
The Bible Belt is a term that originated in the 1920s, symbolizing a religiously devout region in America.
Historically, the Bible Belt is associated with evangelical Christianity, particularly in the Southern United States.
Contemporary politics often leverage the concept of the Bible Belt to appeal to religious values.
The notion of the Bible Belt helps to perpetuate stereotypes about the South and its culture.
Migration patterns have spread the values of the Bible Belt beyond its traditional geographical boundaries.
Hollywood's portrayal of religion in the South often simplifies and distorts the complexity of local culture.

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Additional Resources:
Southern by the Grace of God by Megan Hunt
https://www.dukeupress.edu/reconstructing-dixie
...
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]
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45 min
November 30, 2024BONUS: How Growing Up in the Projects Shaped My Views on Poverty
Homelessness is a complex issue, and approaches to tackling it vary significantly across political lines, as our guest Dr. Becky Avila-Knox explains in this bonus episode, recorded immediately after our episode What Are the Projects?
Becky highlights the importance of recognizing external factors that contribute to homelessness, such as systemic discrimination and economic challenges, rather than attributing it solely to individual choices. The conversation also delves into personal experiences, illustrating how growing up in the projects has shaped her perspective on poverty and resilience. Listeners will gain insight into the societal stigmas surrounding homelessness and the necessity for community support and understanding to create lasting change.
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Special guest for this episode:
Dr. Becky Avila-Knox, the Senior Director of Grants & Contracts for Safe Place for Youth, a US organisation on a mission to empower young people experiencing homelessness.
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Highlights from this episode:
The discussion highlights how homelessness is often viewed through differing political lenses, impacting funding and support.
Becky emphasizes the importance of understanding homelessness as a systemic issue rather than one solely based on individual choices.
There are contrasting approaches to homelessness among political parties that reflect deeper societal beliefs about personal responsibility.
Relocating homeless individuals to cheaper areas does not address the underlying issues they face in their communities.
Becky shares her personal experiences growing up in the projects, highlighting resilience amidst adversity and the importance of community support.
The conversation underscores the need for compassion and systemic change to address homelessness effectively.

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Check out Becky's full episode here:
What Are the Projects?
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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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16 min
November 26, 2024BONUS: The Legacy of Sand Creek: Racism, War, and Cultural Extermination
In this special bonus episode, we continue our conversation from the recent episode What Was the Sand Creek Massacre? and dive deeper into its broader implications for Native American history and relations with the U.S. government.
We discuss recent developments, including President Biden's historic apology for the government's role in cultural genocide through boarding schools, raising questions about the sincerity of recognition and the tangible actions needed to improve the situation for Native peoples today.
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Special guest for this episode:
Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia, with an interest in the American West, immigration and Americanisation.
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Highlights from this episode:
The Sand Creek Massacre illustrates the violent and systematic oppression of Native Americans in U.S. history.
The Civil War did not halt the government's aggressive policies towards Native American communities.
President Biden's recent apology acknowledges the historic injustices faced by Native Americans, particularly in schools.
Cultural extermination was often framed as a form of kindness towards Native Americans by settlers.
The historical perspective reveals that Native Americans were seen as obstacles to American progress.
Discussions about Native American rights today must address both historical grievances and future actions.

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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Who Are Native Americans?
How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee Nation?
What is Thanksgiving?
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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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15 min
November 24, 2024What Was the Sand Creek Massacre?
The Sand Creek Massacre stands as one of the most horrific events in American military history, where hundreds of U.S. army volunteers attacked a peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho village, resulting in the deaths of approximately 150 to 200 individuals, primarily women, children, and the elderly.
This brutal act highlights the broader context of settler colonialism and the U.S. government's broken treaties with Native American tribes during a time of rapid westward expansion driven by the discovery of gold. Colonel John Chivington, who led the attack, justified this atrocity through a deep-seated hatred for Native peoples, viewing them as obstacles to progress.
This episode, on the week of Sand Creek's 160th anniversary, we explore the motivations behind such violence and the societal acceptance of these actions, revealing a historical pattern of displacement and brutality towards Indigenous communities, examining the aftermath and evolving perceptions of the massacre, and the ongoing struggles of Native Americans and the complexities of their relationship with the U.S. government.
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Special guest for this episode:
Jacqueline Fear-Segal, Professor of American and Indigenous Histories at the University of East Anglia, with an interest in the American West, immigration and Americanisation.
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Highlights from this episode:
The Sand Creek Massacre marked a tragic event in American history, highlighting the brutality faced by Indigenous peoples.
Colonel John Chivington led a volunteer army to attack a peaceful Cheyenne village, resulting in numerous deaths.
The massacre involved the murder of mostly women, children, and the elderly, showcasing extreme violence.
Chivington's actions were driven by a deep-seated hatred towards Native Americans, reflecting broader societal views.
Despite initial support for Chivington, public perception shifted as evidence of the massacre surfaced.
The Sand Creek Massacre exemplifies the long history of broken treaties and unjust treatment of Native nations in America.

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Additional Resources:
Remembering the US soldiers who refused orders to murder Native Americans at Sand Creek (theconversation.com)
The Sand Creek Massacre 1864 - Defeat and demise of the Native Americans of the Plains - National 5 History Revision - BBC Bitesize
Native American History Timeline
Cochise: The Legendary Apache Leader Who Fought For His Tribe's Freedom (allthatsinteresting.com)
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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: [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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38 min
November 23, 2024BONUS: Is Country Music a 'Mongrel' Genre?
As the music industry reflects on the recent CMA Awards, here's a conversation we had with John Collins from CountryLine Radio, just after our previous episode of the podcast, What Makes Country Music So American?
John argues that country music, much like the United States itself, is a "mongrel form" influenced by various cultures and musical traditions, and highlights how country music has evolved from gospel, rock, and R&B, reflecting the rich tapestry of influences from immigrant communities throughout American history.
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Special guest for this episode:
John Collins, CountryLine Radio
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Highlights from this episode:
Country music is a reflection of America's immigrant nature, blending diverse musical influences.
The genre's appeal persists as it remains open to international influences and new styles.
Artists like Beyoncé and Lana Del Rey show that country music is becoming popular among mainstream stars.
Traditional country artists coexist with newer influences, creating a dynamic and evolving genre.
Country music's roots are deeply intertwined with various genres, including blues and gospel.
The genre is characterized by storytelling that resonates uniquely, setting it apart from others.

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Listen to John's full episode of the podcast:
What Makes Country Music So American?
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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?
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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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14 min
November 21, 2024ITM8: Donald Trump, Russia, and the Risk of World War Three
In the latest episode of America: A History in the Making, we dive into the aftermath of the recent election, exploring the notable absence of allegations regarding electoral fraud compared to previous years.
We also analyze Trump's controversial appointments and the potential ideological shifts in U.S. policy, particularly concerning immigration and foreign relations, and the evolving dynamics between the U.S. and Russia, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the political maneuvering surrounding American support for Ukraine.
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Special guest for this episode:
Dafydd Townley, a teaching fellow at the University of Portsmouth, whose research interests include the US presidency, particularly in relation to US national security policy
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Highlights from this episode:
The 2023 election demonstrated a surprisingly straightforward outcome, reducing claims of electoral fraud compared to previous years.
Dafydd Townley discusses how the Republican Party's victory influenced the acceptance of election results by Democrats.
Trump's appointments reflect his transactional approach to politics, prioritizing loyalty over broader governance issues.
The implications of Trump's foreign policy could shift towards isolationism, impacting global alliances and conflicts.
Concerns arise that Ukraine may become a political pawn in U.S. domestic power struggles post-election.
The discussion highlights the tension between national security interests and diplomatic relations under Trump's administration.

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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?
Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?
What is a Primary and a Caucus?
Who is Ron DeSantis?
How Are Presidents Elected?
Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan?
How to Run a Democratic Election: Part II
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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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27 min
November 19, 2024Who Was Christopher Columbus?
Christopher Columbus, often credited with discovering America, is a complex historical figure whose legacy prompts significant debate.
While he embarked on his voyages seeking a route to India, he stumbled upon the Caribbean, never realizing he had encountered a new continent, and in this episode, we dive into Columbus' life, exploring his motivations, struggles, and the darker aspects of his expeditions, including the exploitation of indigenous peoples.
We also examines the evolving perception of Columbus in contemporary society, particularly regarding the implications of celebrating figures with controversial legacies.
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Special guest for this episode:
Laurence Bergreen, an award-winning biographer, historian, and chronicler of exploration. His books include Columbus: The Four Voyages
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Highlights from this episode:
Christopher Columbus, often credited with discovering America, was actually an Italian explorer.
His voyages occurred in a time of great uncertainty, lacking modern navigational tools and knowledge.
Columbus's legacy is complex, as he both opened new trade routes and contributed to exploitation.
Historical perspectives on Columbus have shifted, reflecting changing views on exploration and colonialism.
The concept of 'discovery' is problematic, as America was already inhabited by diverse cultures.
Columbus never set foot on mainland America and was looking for India instead.

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Additional Resources:
LISTEN: Columbus: The Four Voyages by Laurence Bergreen
READ: Why Columbus Day Is Worth Defending and Celebrating | Discovery Institute
READ: Should the United States Celebrate Columbus Day? - The New York Times
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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
43 min
November 16, 2024BONUS: The Debate That Altered the Course of American History
In this special bonus episode, recorded before the 2024 Presidential election, we explore the significant implications of the June 2024 presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, which many believe marked a turning point in the election.
We discuss the emotional and political ramifications of Biden's struggles and the broader historical context of debates in shaping public perception of candidates, and how the dynamics of this debate may influence voter turnout and the overall electoral landscape.
The consequences of this debate highlight the ongoing impact of American presidential elections on the global stage, emphasizing the importance of both presidential and congressional outcomes in shaping international relations.
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Special guest for this episode:
Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the University of East Anglia
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Highlights from this episode:
The June 2024 debate between Biden and Trump was seen as an absolute disaster for Biden.
Emma Long expressed that Biden's performance was painful to watch, highlighting his struggles.
The aftermath of the debate led to a shift in Democratic support away from Biden.
Biden's long political career may be viewed more positively in the future despite recent challenges.
The debate significantly altered the dynamics of the 2024 election, impacting voter enthusiasm.
International interest in the U.S. presidential debates reflects America's ongoing global influence.

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Listen to the full episode here:
Who Cares About Presidential Debates: https://pod.fo/e/267a2b
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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]
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25 min
November 14, 2024ITM7: What Does Trump's Comeback Mean for American Politics?
This podcast episode features a deep discussion on the recent presidential election and the implications of Kamala Harris's campaign performance. Ian and Farida Jalalzai analyze the complexities surrounding female voters, noting that 53% of women supported Donald Trump, raising questions about the intersection of gender and economic concerns in voting behavior. They explore the tactical missteps of the Harris campaign and how the dynamics of gender and race influenced the election outcomes. The conversation also delves into the troubling reality of Trump's ability to defy political norms and the potential consequences for American democracy as he returns to power. Throughout the episode, they reflect on the future of the Democratic Party and the challenges it faces moving forward.
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Special guest for this episode:
Farida Jalalzai, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives and Engagement in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, and Professor of Political Science at Virginia Tech.
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Highlights from this episode:
The podcast explores the implications of the recent presidential election and the challenges faced by the Harris campaign.
Farida Jalalzai discusses the importance of understanding the gender gap in voting behavior among different demographics.
Trump's ability to appeal to voters despite his controversial past raises questions about American political norms.
The conversation emphasizes the need for Democrats to reevaluate their strategies in light of the election results.
There is a focus on the potential consequences of Trump's re-election on American democracy and governance.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how political empathy has shifted during the Trump era.

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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President?
Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President?
What is a Primary and a Caucus?
Who is Ron DeSantis?
How Are Presidents Elected?
...
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
30 min

About America: The Story of the USA

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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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