Christopher Phelps

Ruth Kinna, a political theory professor, Christopher Phelps, an American studies expert, and Gary Gerstle, an American history professor, discuss the explosive Haymarket Affair of 1886 in Chicago. They explore the labor rights movement's tumultuous backdrop, focusing on the fight for an eight-hour workday and anarchism's role in the protests. The discussion reveals the tragic executions of key figures, the emergence of May Day, and the enduring legacy of the incident on labor activism and societal change.

Lawrence Goldman, a historian at the University of London, along with Mara Keire from Oxford and Christopher Phelps from Nottingham, dive deep into the significance of the American Populist movement during the Gilded Age. They discuss the challenges faced by struggling farmers and their formation of the People's Party as a political response. The conversation highlights how themes of race and class intertwined with economic issues, and they even explore how 'The Wizard of Oz' symbolizes these populist ideals, revealing the enduring impact of this movement on American society.

Christopher Phelps, an Associate Professor of American history, and Robin Vandome, a Professor in American Studies, lead a discussion on the allure of Marxism in America. They explore the historical and contemporary intersection of Marxist thought with issues of gender, race, and activism. Mara Keire delves into the feminist sex wars of the 1980s, challenging narratives around sexual violence. Andrew Hartman connects Marx's influence to American liberalism, revealing how socialist ideas evolve throughout American history, even in times of resistance.