America: A History

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 ongoing debates about representation and cultural preservation.

We also addresses the challenges faced by native Hawaiians in a rapidly commercialized and tourist-driven economy, the multifaceted relationship between Hawaii and the United States, and the unique position Hawaii holds within the broader American narrative.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Henry Knight Lozano, an American Studies scholar and US historian from the University of Exeter, whose work focuses on the United States' tropical and semi-tropical frontiers of California, Florida, and Hawai'i.

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Highlights from this episode:

• Hawaii's history as a unified kingdom predates its annexation by the United States.
• The introduction of American missionaries in Hawaii had profound cultural and political impacts.
• The 1893 coup against Queen Liliuokalani marked a significant turning point in Hawaiian sovereignty.
• Hawaii's statehood in 1959 followed decades of complex political and cultural negotiations.
• The rise of tourism in Hawaii post-statehood has led to economic growth but cultural tensions.
• Native Hawaiians often express a distinct identity separate from American citizenship, reflecting ongoing issues.

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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 roots and the political struggles that led to its establishment. We also discuss the program's evolution, its impact on the healthcare system, and the ongoing ideological battles surrounding it.

As the U.S. approaches another election cycle, understanding Medicare's role and the varying perceptions of its value is crucial for navigating the future of healthcare in America.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Keith A. Wailoo, a professor of history and public affairs, also at Princeton. He is formerly Vice Dean of the School of Public and International Affairs, and former President of the American Association for the History of Medicine. His research straddles history and health policy, touching on drugs and drug policy, and the politics of race and health.
• Julian E. Zelitzer,  a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University, who The History News Network named as one of the top young historians in the country. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of the revival of American political history

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Highlights from this episode:

• Medicare, created 59 years ago, is a pivotal program providing healthcare to seniors in the US.
• The program's funding comes from payroll taxes and general revenue, challenging the welfare program perception.
• Initially covering only the elderly, Medicare has expanded to include disabled individuals over time.
• Political resistance to Medicare stemmed from fears of socialized medicine and potential fiscal burdens.
• The ongoing debate around Medicare reflects deep ideological divides within American healthcare politics.
• Medicare's success has led to its acceptance across political lines, despite ongoing contention with Medicaid.

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Additional Resources:

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 controversial elements serve as a valuable critique of American society or if its language ultimately makes it unsuitable for educational settings.

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Special Guest:

• Thomas Ruys Smith, a Professor of American Literature and Culture and Deputy Director of Area Studies at the University of East Anglia.

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Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• Huckleberry Finn remains controversial due to its use of racial language and depictions of race.
• The book was initially banned for its use of American slang and irreverent tone.
• Controversy around Huck Finn resurfaced during the Civil Rights Movement due to its racial themes.
• The complexity of Huck Finn's racial themes continues to spark debates about its place in education.
• Different interpretations of the book highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing race in America.
• The enduring relevance of Huck Finn is evidenced by contemporary adaptations and discussions.
• Decisions about teaching Huck Finn involve weighing its educational value against potential harm.
• The book's history of controversy reflects changing societal attitudes towards race and literature.

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Additional Resources:

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?

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Special guest for this episode:

• Farida Jalalzai, Associate Dean for Global Initiatives and Engagement in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, and Professor of Political Science at Virginia Tech.

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Highlights from this episode:

(01:59) Is this a US or a global problem?

(08:51) A lack of women presidential candidates

(14:33) Women still defined by their relationship to men

(16:55) Would a successful Harris presidency mean a failing elsewhere?

(23:08) A lack of opportunities for women in politics

(28:32) Do women dress for the part?

(33:20) Changing perceptions of what makes a good leader

(38:07) Being a torch-bearer for others to follow

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Additional Resources:

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?

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Special guest for this episode:

• John Collins, Head of Radio Operations at CountryLine Radio and, conveniently a huge fan of both country music and American culture.

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Highlights from this episode:

(03:10) A Brit and a Scot talking about country music...

(05:07) Breaking down the stigma

(08:41) Is country music still a white person genre?

(12:20) Earning your country chops

(15:43) US vs international appeal of country music

(20:06) Southern representations

(22:43) The biggest threat to the genre

(25:18) How to keep the country in country

(28:31) Women empowering women

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