The Dangerous History Podcast Ep. 0275: DHP Villains: Woodrow Wilson, Part 13
Dec 2, 2024
Delve into Woodrow Wilson's life, from his romantic encounters with Edith Galt to his growing military preparedness. Discover Colonel House's controversial secret mission to Europe and how Wilson navigated diplomatic tensions. Witness the strategy behind Wilson's 1916 campaign and the tight election results determined by California's late returns. Explore the implications of Wilson’s secret contingency plan and his vision for America’s role in world affairs after the election. A fascinating look at a pivotal time in U.S. history!
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Wilson’s Rapid Second Marriage
- Woodrow Wilson met Edith Bolling Galt in March 1915 and quickly fell deeply in love.
- They married December 18, 1915, shifting Wilson's personal circle and straining ties with Colonel House.
Ambiguity As A Campaign Asset
- Wilson rhetorically balanced global engagement and nonbelligerence to let voters project their preferences onto him.
- That rhetorical ambiguity let him claim credit as a peacemaker while preparing for later action.
Hughes’ Message Problem Helped Wilson
- Republican Charles Evans Hughes ran an incoherent, cautious campaign that failed to unify his party.
- Teddy Roosevelt's bellicose support damaged Hughes by making a Republican vote look like a vote for war.
