Heather Cox Richardson, a historian from Boston College and author of "Letters from an American," dives into the implications of a potential second Trump term. She discusses how misinformation shaped voter perceptions during the recent election and the historical context of economic narratives in American politics. Topics include the flawed myths around tax cuts for low-income earners and the political consequences that affect vulnerable populations. The conversation also touches on the contrasting effectiveness of local public financing in elections versus federal governance.
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insights INSIGHT
Impact of Misinformation
The 2024 election highlighted the impact of misinformation, especially among those who don't consume political news.
Informed voters favored Harris, while misinformed and uninformed voters favored Trump.
insights INSIGHT
Economy Perception vs. Reality
Public perception of the economy played a significant role in the election despite positive economic indicators.
This disconnect between reality and perception mirrors historical patterns, like the Panic of 1893.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Panic of 1893
The Panic of 1893 demonstrates how negative campaigning about the economy can become self-fulfilling.
Despite similar economic conditions to prior years, the narrative led to a crash and Republican victory.
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How L. Frank Baum Discovered the Great American Story
Evan I. Schwartz
This book delves into the life of L. Frank Baum, tracing his journey from a series of failed careers to the creation of 'The Wizard of Oz'. Evan Schwartz draws on original research to debunk popular misconceptions and highlight how people, places, and events in Baum's life inspired his characters and settings. The book reveals that elements like the Yellow Brick Road and the Emerald City were influenced by real-life experiences, such as Baum's attendance at the Chicago World's Fair of 1893 and his time at the Peekskill Military Academy. It also explores the significant influence of Baum's mother-in-law, Matilda Joslyn Gage, a radical women's rights leader, on his portrayal of witches. The narrative is a comprehensive and entertaining look at how Baum's life shaped the 'Great American Story' that is 'The Wizard of Oz'.
Democracy Awakening Notes on the State of America
Heather Cox Richardson
Before this year’s election, Heather Cox Richardson, a historian at Boston College, joined “Make Me Smart” live in Boston to unpack the high stakes for our economy and democracy. Now that the election is over and the transition to a second Donald Trump administration is underway, we’re following up.
On the show today, Richardson weighs in on the election aftermath. She explains how the current media environment in the United States played into the election, how economic narratives have influenced American politics throughout history, and what the past can tell us about how President-elect Trump might brand his economic agenda while in office.
Then, we’ll get into the bipartisan effort to add federal judges that’s suddenly falling apart. And, author Evan Schwartz was wrong about the inspiration behind L. Frank Baum’s “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”