America: A History

In our last bonus episode of the year, I wanted to share some episodes that can get you through the holiday season, linked below, and give you a little tease of what's to come in 2026.Spoiler alert: we are going bigger, better and bolder than ever before, so follow the podcast right now and be part of something mega!...And if you like this episode, you might also love:Is Disneyland the Happiest Place on Earth?What is Disney's America?Why is Santa So American?I Am... Jody Williams...SUPPORT THE SHOWIndividual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnershipsBrand Sponsors: [email protected] us: [email protected]'re partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.

EPISODE BLURB...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 JoyOld Santeclaus with Much Delight: The Children's Friend: A New-Year's Present, to the Little Ones from Five to Twelve'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. MooreA Mischievous St. Nick from the Smithsonian American Art MuseumSanta Claus (1898)A Little Girl Who Did Not Believe in Santa Claus (1907)Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus (1897)Is There a Santa Claus? By Jacob RiisMiracle On 34th Street 1947/ 1994 Double PackThe Little Messenger Birds: Or, the Chimes of the Silver Bells by Caroline ButlerThomas Nast - Hello!, Santa Claus! (originally published in "Harper's Weekly," December 20, 1884) - The Metropolitan Museum of Art...And if you like this episode, you might also love:What is the War on Christmas?How to Make a Hollywood Christmas MovieWhat's the History of Christmas in America?...SUPPORT THE SHOWIndividual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnershipsBrand Sponsors: [email protected] us: [email protected]'re partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is sponsored by What's Your MapWhat's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219

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!...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, and author of The Last Gift: The Christmas Stories of Mary E. Wilkins Freeman.Brian Earl, creator and host of Christmas Past...Highlights from this episode: The importance of traditions like Santa Claus in family celebrations. Brian explains the Christmas Goose. Tom reflects on the evolution of Santa Claus in modern holiday culture and media. How children's understanding of Santa changes as they grow older. The fleeting nature of childhood magic during Christmas celebrations. The portrayal of Mrs. Claus and her evolving role. ...And if you like this episode, you might also love:What is the War on Christmas?How to Make a Hollywood Christmas MovieWhat's the History of Christmas in America?...SUPPORT THE SHOWIndividual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnershipsBrand Sponsors: [email protected] us: [email protected]'re partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is sponsored by What's Your MapWhat's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219 NeoTaste

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?...SUPPORT THE SHOWIndividual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnershipsBrand Sponsors: [email protected] us: [email protected]'re partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is sponsored by What's Your MapWhat's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219

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......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 played a significant role in fostering a love for reading among children.The accessibility of comic books in the United States was much greater during the speaker's childhood.Collecting comics can lead to acquiring valuable editions, but many childhood collections were discarded.The comic book market is complex and often confusing, especially regarding the value of certain issues.The speaker expresses a desire to own a rare comic called Lobo, known for its historical significance.Comic book conventions are places where collectors can search for rare finds and engage with others in the community....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 & ArrowsModern Age of Comic Books - Wikipedia20 Major Comic Events That Shaped Us – GoCollectFandom, Endurance, and CollectingWhy Comic Books Remain Popular Among Collectors - Big News NetworkU.S. Comic Books Market Size, Share | Grand View ResearchCross-Media AdaptationsThe Impact of Comic Books on Popular Culture - Comicbooklist.comFrom Pop Art Panels to Record Breaking Blockbusters - The Science SurveyThe Transformation of Comic Books Into Movies - WhatsAfterTheMovie.comA Brief History of Comic Book Movies - SpringerRepresentation and DiversityKamala Khan - Wikipedia (Ms. Marvel)Black Panther First Appearance - Comic Book AddictsJulian Chambliss and Comics ScholarshipJulian C. Chambliss – Michigan State UniversityAges of Heroes, Eras of Men – Cambridge Scholars Publishing/Open Library, Open LibraryComics Studies as an Academic FieldThe Oxford Handbook of Comic Book Studies - Oxford University Press, Amazon UKThe Power of Comics: History, Form & Culture - Duncan & SmithDigital Transformation, Webcomics, and New PlatformsThe Rise of Digital Comics: Trends and Technologies - electricomics.netThe Rise of Webcomics Explained - Toons MagEvolution of Digital Comics and Graphic Novels - EMB GlobalOther Notable Reference TitlesComic Book Nation: The Transformation of Youth Culture in America – Bradford W. WrightOf Comics and Men: A Cultural History of American Comic Books – Jean-Paul GabillietSeal of Approval. The History of the Comics Code – Amy Kiste NybergSuperhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre – Peter CooganThe Dark Age: Grim, Great & Gimmicky Post-Modern Comics – Mark VogerBaby Boomer Comics: The Wild, Wacky, Wonderful Comic Books of the 1960s! – Craig ShuttThe Comic Book: The One Essential Guide for Comic Book Fans Everywhere – Paul Sassiene...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?...SUPPORT THE SHOWIndividual Supporters: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support University Partners: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnershipsBrand Sponsors: [email protected] us: [email protected]'re partnering with NeoTaste, the exclusive membership card unlocking huge discounts at hundreds of restaurants across the UK & Europe. Get your first 2 months free by using the code AAH at checkout. Sign up here: https://neotaste.com/gb?code=AAH&a=2Are you a University or college? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is sponsored by What's Your MapWhat's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219