Booknotes+ Ep. 194 Corey Brettschneider, "The Presidents and the People"
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Nov 26, 2024 In this engaging discussion, Corey Brettschneider, a constitutional law professor at Brown University and author of "The Presidents and the People," delves into the darker legacies of several U.S. presidents, including John Adams and Richard Nixon. He examines how these figures challenged democracy, from Adams' war on the press to Nixon's criminal acts. The conversation also highlights Woodrow Wilson’s impact on racial justice and the vital role of citizen activism in holding leaders accountable. Historical context enriches the exploration of democracy and civil rights.
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Nixon Grand Jury
- Corey Brettschneider interviewed Nixon grand jurors who voted to indict him.
- Their efforts were thwarted by Nixon's pardon, preventing full accountability.
Finding the Grand Jurors
- Grand jurors' identities were initially published, enabling Brettschneider to locate them.
- Judge Sirica convened the grand jury, informing them of key developments.
Wilson's White Nationalism
- Woodrow Wilson's racism was different because he combined it with nationalism.
- He aimed for national efficiency and viewed integration as an obstacle.