Reflections on Historical Parallels

14min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

The author explores the eerie similarities between historical events preceding the Civil War and the Capitol assault on January 6th, 2021, emphasizing the resonance between past and present concerns. They discuss the complexities of presenting history, aiming to immerse readers in the historical narrative and provide a rich, factual account. The chapter delves into Lincoln's election triggering Southern reactions, misconceptions about his stance on slavery, and the escalating tensions that ultimately led to South Carolina's secession from the Union.

Erik Larson is probably the most successful popular historian working today. His books, which include “The Devil in the White City” and “The Splendid and the Vile,” have sold a staggering 12 million copies. His latest, “The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War,” debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times bestsellers list this week. It’s a gripping account of the five months between Abraham Lincoln’s election and the outbreak of the Civil War — a 163-year-old chapter in our history that Erik says is alarmingly relevant.

Host: Caleb Bissinger

Guest: Erik Larson

ABOUT THE NEXT BIG IDEA CLUB:

We all know that reading is the best investment we can make in ourselves. But figuring out what to read is easier said than done. That's why we started the Next Big Idea Club. We get the best new books — as chosen by our friends Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Susan Cain, and Daniel Pink — into the hands of curious people. Like you! Join us today at nextbigideaclub.com And use promo code PODCAST for a special discount.