America: A History

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!

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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 the...

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...

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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 lo...

In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the intriguing question of whether a woman could ever become pope. Plus, we discuss the current hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church and the significant barriers women face in being ordained.

We also come back to the goodness that Pope Leo XIV seems to embody, suggesting that regardless of religious titles, it's the inherent kindness that truly matters.

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From the heart of Chicago’s South Side to the highest office in the Catholic Church, the journey of Robert Provost is as improbable as it is inspiring.

So in today’s episode, we’re exploring the life, legacy, and cultural significance of the first American Pope. From his early years in Illinois, via his transformative missionary work in Peru, all the way to the papacy, this is a story that both reflects and reshapes the American Catholic experience. So… who is Pope Leo XIV?

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In this special bonus episode, we learn about Fannie Lou Hamer, an activist and one of the lesser known heroes of the civil rights movement, who championed for voter equality in the US, and risked her own safety for justice.

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This week, we're talking about Jeffrey Epstein files, why both sides of the political aisle are uniting and, as the house is set to approve a bill forcing the release of the files in full, could this finally be the beginning of the end for President Trump and the MAGA era?

All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.

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Special Guest:

This week, we are delighted to be joined by friend of the show Alyssa Royse, a business owner from Seattle, who talks to...

This week I am discussing one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in US history. Signed during the fervor of the Civil Rights Movement, it stands as a monument to the unfinished struggle for democracy.

So I want to go beyond the legal text, and peel back the layers of history, injustice, activism, and resilience that not just made it possible, but continue to define its relevance, as I ask… what is the Voting Rights Act?

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In this bonus episode, we shed light on the historical significance of Chief Seattle while confronting the challenges of finding credible sources about Native American history. We explore how his voice has been filtered through settler perspectives, creating a shadowy figure in the archives, and discuss the cultural appropriation that often distorts Indigenous narratives.

As we navigate through the noise that surrounds Chief Seattle, we aim to uncover the real stories of Indigenous history, particularly in urban settings like Seattle, where the past continually resurfaces. Join us as we delve into the intertwined histories of Indigenous and...

This week, we are talking about Seattle. Not the place, specifically, but the formidable indigenous leader of the early 19th century. A warrior, a diplomat, a peacemaker, and an eloquent orator, his defence of Native American rights culminated in a speech that would go down in history, and ultimately lead to his legacy as the namesake for what is now one of the most famous cities in the world. So in this episode, I want to know… who is Chief Seattle?

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Last week, I asked if Disneyland was the happiest place on Earth.

Well, this week, we’re looking at the Disney theme park that never was. The concept for a historical theme park was initially earmarked for Virginia, but less than a year after being announced, it was scrapped. But why?

What was so different about this park compared to others? What was the public reaction? And when Disney was able to launch other parks, even cruise ships, and anything else it wanted, what went so spectacularly wrong with this?

So this week, I...

In this bonus episode, we continue our foray into Disney theme parks, discussing the culture of Disney Adults and our favourite parks and rides.

What are yours?

Email america@podcastsbyliam.com with your opinions, or leave a comment on Spotify and you might be featured on the show next week.

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When Disneyland opened its gates in Anaheim in 1955, it immediately captivated generations of visitors. With seventy years under its belt, its evolution into a sprawling empire of twelve theme parks and six resorts has raked in hundreds of billions of dollars. But have you ever stopped to wonder what fuels this enduring love affair with Disney?

In this episode, we explore the cultural significance of Disneyland: its roots, its innovative beginnings, and how it has shaped family entertainment. And ultimately, we unpack why Disneyland is famously dubbed “the happiest place on Earth” and whether that claim can real...

In this bonus episode, Native American historian Camilla Townsend explores the grey area between appropriation and recognition, and how it's better to be symbolised imperfectly versus being completely forgotten.

This follows on from our previous episode, Who is Pocahontas? as we continue our discussions on Native American culture and history.

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The narrative of Pocahontas is often overshadowed by the simplistic and romanticized version depicted in films. In this episode, we untangle the truth from the many myths surrounding her life, led by historian Camilla Townsend of Rutgers University.

We begin by examining Pocahontas's early life, born in the late 1590s to Powhatan, the chief of a confederacy of tribes in Virginia. While Pocahontas was indeed the daughter of a powerful leader, she was not a princess in the conventional sense. Her upbringing was steeped in the realities of tribal warfare.

We take a critical look...

This week, we journey into a world of horse-drawn buggies, plain dress, and profound faith. But beyond the stereotypes lies a rich and evolving story of migration, community, and quiet resistance to modernity.

So in this episode I want to explore the history, culture, and customs of this often misunderstood community, as I ask… who are the Amish?

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This week, we journey into a world of horse-drawn buggies, plain dress, and profound faith. But beyond the stereotypes lies a rich and evolving story of migration, community, and quiet resistance to modernity.

So in this episode I want to explore the history, culture, and customs of this often misunderstood community, as I ask… who are the Amish?

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This week, we're talking about Donald Trump expanding his deployment of the National Guard to Chicago, the Federal shutdown enters its second week with little optimism over a resolution, and a Mississippi golf course gets an unexpected visitor.

All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.

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Special Guest:

Alyssa Royse, the owner of Rocket Community Fitness in Seattle, who is deeply passionate about fighting to preserve a fair and equal democracy in the US.

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This week, I am issuing an apology on behalf of myself and the podcast. In the previous 90 episodes of this show, we have discussed slavery, the African American experience, immigration, Asian American and Native American history numerous times. And yet, we have not directly addressed the problematic experiences of Mexican, Latino and Hispanic people in the US… until now.

So this week, we are visiting 1960s Chicago, a city that poured fuel on the already explosive issue of Civil Rights, during a period of extraordinary national transformation, as I ask… what were the Latino Urban Riots?

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Dr. Charles Drew, a groundbreaking figure in the field of blood transfusion and a pioneer in medical history, deserves far more recognition than he typically receives.

In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into his incredible life and legacy with Dr. Craig Miller, who recently authored a book on Dr. Drew, collaborating closely with his daughter Charlene.

We explore how Drew's impact reverberated through the African American community and discuss the surprising lack of extensive literature about his contributions. Craig shares fascinating insights from his research journey, including some enlightening moments with Charlene as they...

This week, I'm going solo for an ad hoc episode discussing the US government shutdown, as the federal budget stalls in congress.

Non-essential services are now frozen, as many Americans find themselves out of work until this situation is resolved.

So what is it, why does it keep happening, and why is it continuing?

All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.

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Useful Links:

Four ways the US government shutdown could end - BBC News

US government shutdown...

This week, we are shining a light on someone who is often overlooked, and yet his contributions to medical science revolutionised patient care, not just in America but around the world.

Yet, his life also highlights issues of race, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence amidst major systemic barriers. So on this episode, I want to know.. who is Dr. Charles Drew?

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In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the aftermath of the Mayflower's journey and the complex relationships that unfolded upon its arrival. Joining me is Peter Mancall, who sheds light on the often-overlooked impact of the English colonists on Native American communities.

We explore how the devastation from diseases brought by Europeans led to significant displacement of indigenous peoples, setting the stage for the tumultuous history that followed. Peter offers a stark reminder of how history can sometimes be simplified, as we discuss the significance of Plymouth Rock—more of a metaphorical landmark than a grand hi...

On this week's edition of In the Making:

● Is the Supreme Court set to overturn a 90 year old precedent?

● The Jimmy Kimmell saga divides America,

● Trump’s unhinged speech… even by his standards, and

● Hide your acorns, because San Francisco is under attack!

All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.

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Special Guest:

This week, we are delighted to be joined by show regular and our resident politics expert, from the University of East Anglia, Dr. Emma Long

On this day in 1938, the World’s Fair came to Flushing Meadows Park in New York City. It is here that the Westinghouse Time Capsules were buried underground, to be opened in 5,000 years time. Its contents include a copy of Life magazine, a pack of Camel cigarettes, a dictionary, and a variety of seeds.

So this week, we are going to curate our own time capsule, to reflect the 21st century United States as accurately as possible, for anybody finding this podcast in 5,000 years.

What would you put in a US capsule?

Email us...

Katrina: Hell and High Water is the new three part docuseries, available to stream now on Netflix. In this special bonus episode, I explain why this series is really worth your time, and I hope you take a few hours to watch it this weekend.

Racial tension and social division is not American history. It's a present issue that needs our attention, because if we continue to ignore it, especially under the current administration, the consequences could be exceptionally tragic.

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This week, we're talking about:

All of this and more on another edition of America: A History in the Making.

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This week, we are delighted to be joined by Ira Chaleff, the Chair Emeritus of the non-partisan Congressional Management Foundation, and his newest book, To Stop a Tyrant: The Power of Political Followers, has won several...

On this day in 1620, a boat carrying over pilgrims from Plymouth, England, set sail. It’s destination? The New World. The events that followed have been retold, mythicised, and immortalised as one of the defining moments in the colonisation of the United States of America.

So in this episode I want to know more about the voyage, the people, and the reality of what really happened, as I ask… what is the Mayflower?

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In this bonus episode, we explore the intricate relationship between the U.S. Treasury and the broader financial system, the complexities of government finance, and its impact on our daily lives. We also discuss the separation of powers within the government, particularly how the Treasury's functions are influenced by the executive branch.

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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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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.

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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 crit...

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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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...

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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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 thro...

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...

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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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?

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