Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History, Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History, and Nicholas Guyatt, a Professor of North American History, dive into the creation and significance of The Federalist Papers. They discuss the historical context following the American Revolution and the foundational debates surrounding state versus national governance. The trio elaborates on key themes like the challenges of the Articles of Confederation and the ongoing relevance of Hamilton and Madison's arguments, which remain central to today's political discourse.

Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History, Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita specializing in modern history, and Michael Rapport, an expert in European history, dive deep into the transformative 1778 Franco-American alliance. They discuss France's motivation for supporting the American Revolution and its subsequent financial strains that fueled the French Revolution. The conversation also touches on America's tricky diplomacy amidst renewed Franco-British conflict, the influence of Benjamin Franklin, and the evolving dynamics surrounding slavery and revolutionary fervor.

Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History, along with Jonathan Aronson, a Professor of Communication and International Relations, and Teng Jianqun, Director at the Diplomacy Study Center, delve into the potential upheaval from a second Trump administration. They discuss Trump's unpredictable foreign policies and the resulting anxieties among European allies, particularly concerning NATO and economic relations. Exploring historical parallels and geopolitical implications, the conversation reflects on the delicate balance of U.S. alliances amidst rising global tensions.