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...

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...

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...

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...

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 transition period following a presidential election is a critical yet often overlooked phase in American politics, so in this episode we explore the intricate processes and protocols that occur in the two months between the election and the inauguration of a new president. We discuss the historical evolution of the transition, its additional complexity with the growth of the executive branch, and the introduction of formal transition teams. We also look at the implications of party...

A recent poll suggests that 72% of Americans believe the US used to be a good example of democracy but has not been for the past few years. In this special live event, recorded at the University of East Anglia's Norwich campus in England, a group of experts on the US come together to discuss the recent election, the political and historical context, the result, and what it all means for the state of American democracy today and in the future. ... Special guest for this episode: Prof. Rebecca...

In this special episode of America: A History in the Making, the day after the 2024 U.S. election, we bring reactions, insights, and reflections from a diverse group of American voters discussing one of the most unpredictable elections in American history. The conversation highlights a stark realization: despite a highly qualified candidate in Kamala Harris, many voters gravitated towards Trump, revealing deep-seated issues of racism, misogyny, and the complexities of identity politics. Our...

In this extra bonus, following on from a previous main episode, we delve into the prospects of Kamala Harris winning the presidency and the broader implications for women and candidates of color in American politics. Special guest Farida Jalalzai shares her insights on Harris' current campaign dynamics, highlighting both the enthusiasm surrounding her candidacy and the criticisms regarding the perceived lack of policy substance. Plus, we touche on the unique challenges Harris faces as a woman...

As the US election approaches, this special episode looks at the experiences of first time American voters casting their ballots from abroad, highlighting the unique challenges they face. Guests Henry and McKenna, both students on an exchange semester at UEA in the UK, share their insights on the registration process and the emotional weight of participating in their first presidential election. We discuss the polarized political landscape, how younger voters perceive Kamala Harris and Donald...

On Tuesday November 5th 2024, millions of Americans will decide who moves into the White House for the next four years: former President Donald Trump, or incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. This election cycle has been like no other, and the outcome will set the course of America's future. In the first of our two-part deep dive into the U.S. electoral process, this week’s episode explores the American election - how it's organised, how they ensure accuracy and efficiency, how it could be...

In the second part of our US election special, we dive into the complexity and intricacies surrounding the U.S. electoral process, particularly as the nation approaches a pivotal presidential election. Special guests Dr. Emma Long and Daffy Townley engage in an exploration of the mechanisms that uphold the integrity, fairness, and inclusivity of elections, beginning with the principles of democratic elections, emphasizing the necessity for representation and transparency while dissecting the...

Baseball's status as America's pastime is deeply intertwined with its rich history and the shared experiences it fosters among fans. This bonus episode delves into the unique structure of baseball games, which revolve around innings rather than a strict time limit, allowing for a slower, more reflective pace compared to other sports. We discuss how this leisurely nature of the game has both contributed to its charm and led to challenges in attracting younger audiences, and we touch on...

Baseball's evolution from a localized pastime to America's national sport is intricately linked to the social dynamics and historical context of the 19th century. In this episode, we discuss the rise of baseball, and focus on the Celestials, a semi-professional baseball team comprised of Chinese American students, highlighting the challenges and triumphs they faced amid a backdrop of xenophobia and racism. As baseball grew in popularity, it mirrored both the inclusive and exclusionary aspects...

This bonus episode delves into the complexities surrounding Mark Twain's "Huckleberry Finn," particularly why it has faced challenges and bans over the years. Guest Professor Thomas Smith explores the book's rich historical context, its impact on American literary culture, and the nuances of its language that continue to engage contemporary readers. We also discuss the importance of understanding the societal perspectives during the time the book was written, as well as Twain's own evolving...

In this milestone 50th episode of the main podcast, we delve into the complex history of Hawai'i, exploring its journey from an independent kingdom to becoming the 50th state of the United States in 1959. We discuss the significant cultural, political, and economic changes that have shaped Hawaii's identity over the years, including the impact of American missionaries, the sugar industry, and military interests, as well as Hawaiian identity and sovereignty, particularly in the context of...

Medicare, a national health insurance program for individuals over 65, has been a pivotal part of American social policy since its inception in 1965 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Despite its significance, the program remains a contentious topic in U.S. politics, often debated in the context of broader healthcare reforms and federal tax implications. In this episode we explore what Medicare covers, how it operates, and the reasons behind its divisive nature, delving into its historical...

Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" continues to stir debate over a century after its publication, primarily due to its racial themes and language. In this episode, we delve into the book's historical context, examining its use of vernacular and portrayals of race. The book continues to face scrutiny for its depiction of race and its frequent use of racial slurs, prompting calls for it to be removed from school curricula, so in this podcast we explore whether the book's...

Since 1779, the United States have sworn in 46 Presidents. All very different - some democrat, some republican, even whigs, and federalists. Northern, southern, white, black, old, young. And each one has carved a different road to the White House, and left behind a unique legacy. But there is one common factor between them. All 46, without exception, are men. So in this episode, I want to know… will America ever elect a woman for President? ... Special guest for this episode: Farida Jalalzai,...

This week we are donning our stetsons and grabbing a cold one, as we discuss the most rootin’ tootin’ American music genre of them all. From Dolly Parton to Taylor Swift with a little bit of Footloose, country has come to epitomise the US, but as the genre’s popularity booms internationally, does its Americanness still endure? So in this episode I’m asking… what makes country music so American? ... Special guest for this episode: John Collins, Head of Radio Operations at CountryLine Radio...

If June 27th is remembered as the night that ended the Biden re-election campaign, then September 10th may just be remembered as the night that derailed Trump's. It was memorable, it was full of talking points, and it may have just put the momentum firmly back in Harris' camp. So what exactly went down at the debate? With reaction and insight to everything that happened, this is America: A History in the Making. Special guest for this episode: Andrew Wroe, a Senior Lecturer in American...

Presidential debates are a staple of the election cycle, but in recent years the drama of deciding who gets to host a debate and when can often be more exciting than the event itself. In a world where news is instant and everyone is connected, do they have the same impact and influence on elections as they once did? So in this episode, I want to know… who cares about Presidential debates? Special guest for this episode: Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics at the...

In Britain, council estates are a standard part of the housing ecosystem. That is, government-built housing for those who lack the means to house themselves. But the US also has a long-standing public housing system, used by millions, but the challenges are unique and, reportedly, their future is uncertain. So in this episode, I want to understand this a lot more, as I ask… what are the Projects? Special guest for this episode: Becky Avila-Knox, the Senior Director of Grants & Contracts...

This week, as the 2024 Presidential election draws nearer, the possibility of a second Trump term looms larger, and the very question of what is and isn’t constitutional becomes increasingly divisive, I want to go all the way back to where it all began. So in this episode, I want to know… what was the Constitutional Convention? Special Guests: Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics and Head of the Department of American Studies at the University of East...