Michael Hattem
Historian specializing in the American Revolution, its political culture, and its historical memory. He is the author of The Memory of ’76: The Revolution in American History and Past and Prologue: Politics and Memory in the American Revolution, and author of The Declaration of Independence: A Concise History.
Best podcasts with Michael Hattem
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Sep 17, 2026 • 41min
Jefferson & the Revolutionary War
Michael Hattem, a historian of the American Revolution and author of The Memory of ’76, explores Thomas Jefferson’s overlooked wartime role. They discuss Jefferson’s political rise, his influence on the Declaration, Virginia’s path to independence, and his vision of republican citizenship. The conversation also covers his constrained governorship, Jack Jouet’s warning ride, and Jefferson’s evolving postwar worldview.
Jan 8, 2026 • 57min
How Revolutionary was the Declaration of Independence?
In this enlightening discussion, historian Michael Hattem explores the revolutionary nature of the Declaration of Independence. He highlights how Enlightenment ideas shaped its creation and the significance of grievances against British rule. Hattem also dives into the surge of popular support for independence in 1776 and the political motivations behind Jefferson's authorship. The conversation reveals the Declaration’s global legacy, its paradox of slavery, and how it has inspired various movements for justice and rights throughout history.
