Andrew Preston

Join Andrew Preston, a Cambridge University Professor of American History, as he discusses the Vietnam War's complex legacy. They explore how the war divided America, shedding light on Eugene McCarthy's presidential campaign and the anti-war movement. Preston emphasizes the war's roots in colonialism and contrasts U.S. and Vietnamese perspectives. The moral ramifications of military actions are examined, along with the transformative impact of media on public perception, culminating in a lively comparison of 'The Deer Hunter' and 'Apocalypse Now'.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Preston, a Cambridge University professor specializing in religion's role in war and diplomacy, delves into America's complex relationship with faith and conflict. He explores how early settlers' beliefs influenced military actions and diplomacy, shaping notions like Manifest Destiny. Preston further examines Christianity's profound effect on American imperialism during the 19th century and the moral dilemmas faced by historical leaders, revealing the intricate ties between faith and national identity.

Andrew Preston, a professor of history at the University of Cambridge and an expert on American history and religion, joins the conversation to explore the intertwining of faith and American identity. They delve into why anti-clericalism is rare in the U.S., the rise of religious belief, and whether the Cold War was a religious crusade. The discussion touches on American Exceptionalism, the Marketplace of Faith, and questions the historical accuracy of terms like 'U.S. isolationism.' Preston's insights illuminate the pivotal role religion plays in shaping U.S. foreign policy.