Thinking in Public with Albert Mohler Woodrow Wilson Reconsidered — A Conversation with Christopher Cox
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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.
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Wilson's Contradictory Legacy
- Woodrow Wilson's historical image is largely positive, often placing him among the top US presidents.
- This image contrasts sharply with his problematic views and actions, particularly regarding race and women's suffrage.
Wilson's Critique of US Governance
- Woodrow Wilson's early academic work reveals his preference for a British parliamentary system over the US Constitution.
- He believed the US system's checks and balances hindered effective governance.
Wilson's Southern Roots
- Woodrow Wilson, born Thomas or Tommy, grew up in a Southern Presbyterian household with Confederate sympathies.
- This upbringing shaped his views on race and American history, influencing his later political career.
