Worker and Parasite cover image

Worker and Parasite

The World That Wasn't by Benn Steil

Aug 19, 2024
Delve into the fascinating political life of Henry Wallace, FDR’s second vice president, as the hosts dissect his unconventional leadership style and ideals. Explore the mystical journey of Nicholas Roerich, revealing the cult-like allure of his teachings. Enjoy a humorous critique of ambitious plots like the creation of Shambhala, intertwined with absurd political maneuvers during the Great Depression. The discussion also touches on the intricate dynamics of the 1944 Democratic Convention, showcasing the complexities of Cold War politics and evolving ideologies.
01:10:29

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Henry Wallace's rise in American politics exemplifies the tension between idealism and the practical challenges of governance during the New Deal era.
  • His unconventional beliefs influenced his controversial policies as Secretary of Agriculture, highlighting the disconnection between theory and real-world consequences.

Deep dives

The Life and Political Journey of Henry Wallace

Henry Wallace, a key figure in American politics, began his work as a farmer before ascending to significant political roles, including Vice President under Franklin D. Roosevelt. His background as a progressive Republican and his experiences in agriculture largely shaped his political perspectives. Despite his contributions to farming and policy during the New Deal, Wallace's complexities—both personally and politically—often clouded his effectiveness, with many seeing him as a figure driven more by personal grievances and ambition than cohesive ideology. His vice presidency was marked by FDR's need to consolidate farm and progressive votes, but Wallace's oddities and the circumstances surrounding him hinted at greater political turmoil to come.

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