159. The American Revolution: Building The New Rome (Ep 4)
Jun 12, 2024
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Maya, a historian specializing in American history, joins William and Anita to discuss the challenges of uniting the 13 states after the American Revolution, drawing inspiration from Rome and the Enlightenment. They explore the impact on British attitudes towards India, the birth of America, Roman influence, political dynamics, and the enduring friendship between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.
Founding Fathers crafted a lasting republic based on Roman inspiration and Enlightenment ideals.
Post-Revolution era witnessed political divisions over slavery, westward expansion, and imperial ambitions.
Deep dives
Birth of a Nation: Shaping a New Country
The episode delves into the aftermath of the American Revolution, focusing on building the newly formed country. The discussion revolves around establishing a governing structure through the drafting of a constitution to unite the states. Additionally, the Federalist Papers play a significant role in garnering support for the constitution. Leaders like George Washington become crucial symbols in creating a shared national identity, drawing inspiration from Roman imagery.
Internal Cleavages and Political Ideologies
The podcast highlights the post-Revolution era's political divisions and differing visions for the country's future outlook. Divisions emerge over critical issues like the expansion of slavery and treatment of Native Americans. Notably, contrasting perspectives on westward expansion and the concept of the United States as an empire shape the political consciousness of the early republic.
Imperial Ambitions and Territorial Expansion
A key theme explored is the imperial aspirations of the early United States, focusing on westward expansion and the acquisition of the Louisiana territory from Napoleon. The episode draws parallels between American Republican ideals and imperial ambitions, reflecting a desire to expand the nation's geopolitical footprint.
Enduring Friendship Amid Ideological Rifts
An intriguing aspect discussed is the enduring friendship between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, despite ideological differences and political battles. The episode reflects on their post-Presidential bond, captured through a series of heartfelt letters discussing the nation's founding principles and shared history. The poignant coincidence of both legends passing away on the same day, 50 years after the Declaration of Independence, symbolizes a remarkable conclusion to their intertwined legacies.
The British have surrendered, they’ll be leaving soon. Now the Americans have a new and arguably harder task than before. They have to meld those 13 states, each with their own sense of independence and unique characteristics, into a country. Taking inspiration from Rome, the Enlightenment, and their own experience of British rule, the Founding Fathers created a republic that lasts until today. Listen as William and Anita are joined by Maya for the last of our episodes on the American Revolution.