Today, we welcome Thaddeus Russell on the DMPL Podcast. Russell is the author of A Renegade History of the United States, a counter-history of the United States. The book examines groups of people that Russell says shaped the country without being etched into history books, including "drunkards, laggards, prostitutes, and pirates." This provocative perspective claims the country's personality has been influenced by "the Puritan work ethic" and its opposite - those that have lived on the fringes of society, ignoring that work ethic.

Russell will be at Peace Tree Brewing Company in Des Moines next Tuesday, November 19, at 7:00 pm to discuss his book and answer questions. See the podcast links below for ticket information.

Content Advisory: The conversation does involve adult topics, including sex work.

Podcast Links:

• Thaddeus Russell at Peace Tree Brewing Company
• Thaddeus Russell Website
• A Renegade History of the United States in DMPL's catalog