In this insightful conversation, Professor Kate Masur, an award-winning historian and expert on the 14th Amendment, joins the hosts to discuss the legality of Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship. She provides historical context, debunking modern misconceptions and emphasizing the foundational role of citizenship in U.S. law. The discussion also touches on SCOTUS cases, the implications of recent executive actions, and the importance of understanding the historical roots of citizenship rights.

Gilbert Paul Carrasco, a legal history expert, Kate Masur, a historian of the Reconstruction era, and Kidada Williams, an African American history scholar, dive into the tumultuous legal landscape of Reconstruction. They discuss how laws both upheld racial hierarchies and fueled the Black freedom struggle. The trio explores landmark cases like Dred Scott, the promises and challenges of Reconstruction Amendments, and the ongoing fight for voting rights. This insightful conversation sheds light on the complex relationship between legislation and civil rights during a pivotal time in American history.

Michael Gerhardt, a constitutional law expert, Kate Masur, a distinguished historian of Reconstruction, and Ted Widmer, author and contributor, engage in a lively discussion about presidential inaugural addresses. They analyze Trump’s second address alongside historical speeches by iconic leaders such as Lincoln and FDR. The conversation delves into the evolution of presidential rhetoric, contrasting themes of unity and division, and the speeches' roles in shaping political discourse. These insights reveal how inaugural addresses serve as pivotal reflections of American values and ideals.