America: The Story of the USA

The tree is up, the lights are on, and the presents are (probably) wrapped. Only two more sleeps until the day when sacred, family-oriented togetherness merges with ruthless consumer culture… or, as it’s more commonly known, Christmas. So in this episode we’re going to dive into the murky, tinsel-covered contradiction of the holiday season, as I ask… is Capitalism killing Christmas?...Special guest for this episode:Thomas Ruys Smith, Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of Area Studies at the University of East Anglia. His new book, Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon, is available to buy now.Brian Earl the creator and host of the excellent podcast Christmas Past… a very merry welcome back to Brian Earl…...Highlights from this episode:Christmas has evolved significantly from its religious roots into a commercially driven holiday, with advertising and consumerism deeply intertwined.The Puritans' resistance to Christmas in early America reflects a long-standing conflict between celebration and moral values within American culture.Consumerism and Christmas are inextricably linked; it's hard to separate the two without losing the holiday's modern meaning.Historical variations in Christmas celebrations across America reveal regional differences in traditions, influenced by factors like local culture and economy.The rise of industrialism in the 19th century played a crucial role in shaping the consumer habits associated with the Christmas season.Charitable giving during Christmas often serves to highlight socioeconomic divides while simultaneously fostering a sense of community and shared goodwill....Additional Resources:Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys SmithChristmas Past by Brian EarlThe Modern Christmas in America: A Cultural History of Gift Giving by Williams Waits<a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2078795"...

Last year, I asked ‘Who is Santa Claus?’ We discussed the origins and early incarnations of the figure we now understand to be Santa through a more global lens. So this year, I want to continue this conversation, but look specifically at how he became America’s poster boy for Christmas, and why this could be challenged in future, as I ask… why is Santa so American?...Special guest for this episode:Thomas Ruys Smith, a Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of the New Area Studies Research Centre. In 2023, he published The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman, and his new book, Searching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon, is available to buy now.Vaughn Joy, whose doctoral research, Selling Out Santa, focuses specifically on Hollywood Christmas Films in the age of McCarthy....Highlights from this episode:The discussion revolved around the transformation of Santa Claus into an American cultural icon over the years.We explored how Santa's early depictions varied regionally across America, reflecting different cultural influences and customs.The podcast highlighted the role of commercialism in shaping Santa’s image, especially during the rise of department stores in the late 19th century.Santa Claus has evolved through various literary and film interpretations, reflecting societal values and changes in American culture.The conversation touched on the implications of Santa's myth on children's expectations around Christmas and societal values of generosity and goodwill.We examined how modern iterations of Santa are influenced by current events and cultural shifts, showcasing his adaptability in American folklore....Additional Resources:Amazon.com: The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman edited by Thomas Ruys SmithSearching for Santa Claus: An Anthology of the Poems, Stories and Illustrations That Shaped an American Icon by Thomas Ruys SmithSelling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthy by Vaughn Joy<a...

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 their story in their own words....Special guest for this episode:Jody Williams, a Nobel Peace Laureate, who changed international law by founding the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). She is now a founding member of the Nobel Women’s Initiative, and her tireless determination to make the world a better, safer, and more equitable place has had an unfathomable impact on millions....Additional Resources:My Name Is Jody Williams: A Vermont Girl's Winding Path to the Nobel Peace Prize by Jody WilliamsJody Williams – Biographical - NobelPrize.orgJody Williams | Peace JamJody Williams: A realistic vision for world peace | TED TalkHomepage - ICBLCMCNobelPrize.org...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: america@podcastsbyliam.comJoin the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.comWant to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk.

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 love comic books?...Special guest for this episode:Julian Chambliss, a Professor of English at Michigan State University, whose research focuses on race, culture, and power in real and imagined spaces, with a particular interest in comic book history/...Highlights from this episode:Comic books have transformed from simple newspaper strips into a significant component of American pop culture, highlighting their incredible evolution and widespread appeal.The connection between comic book narratives and societal anxieties reflects the historical context of American culture during significant events, like wars and societal shifts.Comic book characters, especially superheroes, serve as symbols of American values, often embodying the ideals of hope, justice, and the fight against tyranny, as seen in figures like Captain America.The enduring popularity of comic books can be attributed to their diverse storytelling capabilities, allowing them to transcend genres and reach audiences of all ages and backgrounds....Additional Resources:Origins and HistoryHistory of American comics - WikipediaHistory Of American Comics: From Victorian Roots To The Modern Multimedia Era (Toons Mag)American comic book - WikipediaHistoire de Mr. Vieux Bois – Wikipedia + Guinness World Records, Guinness World Records: First ComicA History of the Comic Book - Random HistoryGolden, Silver, Bronze, and Modern AgesComic Book Ages Explained - BiowarsSilver Age Comics - Comic Buying CenterThe Flash: The Silver Age - Slings &amp; ArrowsModern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollectFandom, Endurance, and Collecting<a...

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?...Special guest for this episode:Kathleen Cummings, a professor of history and American studies at the University of Notre Dame, with a focus on the history of women, Catholicism and American religion. Her books include A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American.John Doughney, a childhood friend of Pope Leo. They attended Catholic school together in Chicago, and he now lives in Texas, running a beautiful stained glass business with his wife....Highlights from this episode:Robert Provost's journey from Chicago's south side to the papacy is truly remarkable.This episode highlights the cultural significance of Pope Leo XIV as the first American Pope.We delve into how Pope Leo's early life influenced his commitment to servant leadership.Pope Leo XIV's missionary work in Peru profoundly shaped his understanding of social justice and community.The podcast explores the unique dynamics of being an American Pope in a diverse global church.We discuss how Pope Leo XIV's choice of name signifies hope and a commitment to social teaching....Additional Resources:A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American by Kathleen Cummings'We knew there was something special about him,' says childhood friend of Pope LeoHow a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope&nbsp; by the Daily MailPope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News AgencyStained Glass by John &amp; Nancy Doughney...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...

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..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 us about her own experience of sexual assault when she was a teenager (not related to Epstein)..Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk.Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.comJoin the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first monthGet the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/Brand &amp; advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com

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 settler communities and reflect on how those relationships evolve over time....Special guest for this episode:Coll Thrush, a professor of history at the University of British Columbia, with a teaching focus on Indigenous and settler colonial histories. His books include the acclaimed Native Seattle....Highlights from this episode:Chief Seattle remains a somewhat elusive figure, with historical records often filtered through settler perspectives.Urban and Indigenous histories are not mutually exclusive; they are intertwined and shape each other significantly.Cultural appropriation and the use of Native imagery in cities raise important questions about respect and representation.Indigenous communities in Washington have experienced a resurgence in culture and political presence over the last fifty years.Historical injustices, such as the treatment of Indigenous peoples in boarding schools, continue to impact present-day relations.Apologies for past wrongs, like those issued by political leaders, must be accompanied by meaningful actions to foster true reconciliation....Additional Resources:Native Seattle: Histories from the Crossing-Over Place by Coll ThrushChief Seattle and the Town That Took His Name: The Change of Worlds for the Native People and Settlers on Puget by David BuergeChief Seattle Speech | The Suquamish TribeWhat happened at the great battle at Maple Bay? – The DiscourseTreaty of Point Elliott, 1855 | GOIA...And if you like this episode, you might also love:Who Are Native Americans?How Did Slavery Impact Cherokee...

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 want to know… what was Disney’s America… and why didn’t it happen?...Special guest for this episode:Jared Bahir Browsh, an Assistant Teaching Professor, cultural historian, and author at the University of Colorado, Boulder, with an interest in the relationship between culture, money, power, and identity in the United States and globally. His piece on The Conversation about the collapse of Disney’s America.Sabrina Mittermeier, a research associate at the University of Kassel with a focus on theme parks. Her books include A Cultural History of the Disneyland Theme Parks: Middle Class Kingdoms, and she also wrote a paper specifically on Disney’s America....Highlights from this episode:Disney's America was an ambitious project aimed at creating an immersive historical theme park, but ultimately it faced significant backlash and was cancelled due to various cultural and financial factors.The early 90s were a transformative time for Disney, with a strong emphasis on capitalism and expansion, and Disney's America was seen as a reflection of that cultural landscape.Critics pointed out that Disney's America struggled to balance entertainment with the complexities of American history, leading to concerns about how history would be portrayed in a theme park setting.The failure of Disney's America highlighted the challenges of creating a theme park that deals with serious historical themes, especially in a location close to significant Civil War battlefields and historical sites....Additional Resources:Inside the collapse of Disney’s America, the US history-themed park that almost was by Jared Bahir Browsh“Windows to the Past”: Disney’s America, the Culture Wars, and the Question of Edutainment by Sabrina MittermeierStaging a Comeback: Broadway, Hollywood, and the Disney Renaissance by Peter Kunze...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: america@podcastsbyliam.comJoin the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa -