This Guy Sucked Mid-Century Liberals with Dr. Andrew Hartman
Apr 17, 2025
Dr. Andrew Hartman, a history professor at Illinois State University and author of 'Karl Marx in America', dives into the intricate ties between mid-century liberalism and Marxism. He critiques well-loved presidents like FDR and discusses how their ideologies have shaped modern perspectives on socialism. The conversation also highlights the impact of the Cold War on political thought, labor movements, and the evolving nature of American liberalism, warning against current political stagnation and the dangers of hyper-nationalism.
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Cold War Liberalism's Political Blueprint
- Mid-century liberalism invented an American political tradition opposing Marx by proving it wrong.
- This tradition narrowed political visions and curbed leftist influence in favor of capitalism expansion.
FDR's Role in Shaping Liberalism
- FDR saved capitalism through the New Deal, which helped dismiss Marxism as unnecessary.
- This shaped American liberalism to reject socialism as part of its political tradition.
Cold War Uses of Marxism
- Liberals and conservatives both used Marxism to define themselves during the Cold War.
- Liberals disproved Marx, conservatives equated liberalism with Marxism to discredit it.
