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This Day
A Brawl In Congress (1798) w/ Joanne Freeman
Jan 30, 2024
Joanne Freeman, a Yale history professor, joins the hosts to discuss a violent brawl that took place in Congress in 1798. They explore the party divisions, philosophical differences, and class dynamics that fueled the violence. The episode also explores the abnormal existence of political parties in 1798 and the relationship between violence and partisanship in American politics throughout history. The guest shares the story of Matthew Lyon, who was charged with violating the Sedition Act and later achieved an electoral victory.
22:26
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Quick takeaways
- The incident between Griswold and Lyon in 1798 highlights the extreme partisanship and significance of honor and manhood in early American politics.
- The mixed reactions to the fight reflect the growing tensions and divisions within the nation, with partisan interpretations shaping public discourse and Lyon's subsequent reelection exemplifying the prevailing sentiment towards a more democratic Republican vision.
Deep dives
Violence and heated rhetoric in early American politics
In this episode, the hosts discuss the instance of violence and heated rhetoric on the floor of the House of Representatives in 1798. Connecticut's Roger Griswold and Vermont's Matthew Lyon engaged in a heated exchange, with Lyon ultimately spitting in Griswold's eye and Griswold retaliating by caning Lyon on the House floor. This incident raises questions about the intersection of political violence and partisan division in early American politics. It reflects the extreme partisanship of the time, with Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans having opposing views on democracy and relations with France. The incident also highlights the significance placed on notions of honor and manhood in this era of American politics.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode