Thinking in Public with Albert Mohler
Woodrow Wilson Reconsidered — A Conversation with Christopher Cox
Jan 22, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Christopher Cox, former SEC Chairman and Senior Scholar at UC Irvine, delves into Woodrow Wilson's complex legacy. He examines Wilson's dual reputation as a president, highlighting his contributions alongside troubling policies on racism and women's suffrage. Cox connects Wilson's ideals to Enlightenment racial theories and critiques the devastating effects of eugenics. The discussion also reflects on Wilson's political isolation post-World War I and the theme of disillusionment in American democracy, illustrating the nuanced interpretation of historical figures.
01:00:36
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Quick takeaways
- Woodrow Wilson's presidency reveals a complex interplay between his contributions to women's suffrage and his troubling racial ideologies.
- Wilson's academic background fostered a view of governance that embraced excessive presidential power, undermining constitutional checks and balances.
Deep dives
The Central Role of Woodrow Wilson in U.S. History
Woodrow Wilson's significance in American history is intricately linked to pivotal issues such as women's suffrage and racial politics. Despite his prominence as a president, these topics were seldom at the forefront of past biographies, which often downplayed their importance. The female suffrage movement, culminating in women gaining the right to vote, is regarded by many as one of the defining events of the 20th century, outweighing other historical milestones. Recognizing Wilson's complex legacy helps to better understand how these societal changes unfolded and why they were neglected in historical narratives.
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