Peniel Joseph

Dr. Peniel Joseph, a prominent author and professor focusing on African American history, discusses the landmark year of 1963. He highlights transformative events like JFK's assassination and Martin Luther King's iconic 'I Have a Dream' speech. The conversation explores the contrasting strategies of civil rights leaders Malcolm X and MLK, revealing the complexities of the movement. Joseph emphasizes how these pivotal moments reshaped American society and continue to influence contemporary discussions on racial justice and civil rights.

Is the U.S. on the brink of civil war? It's a question that has been in the air for a while now, as divisions continue to worsen. Beyond the political speeches and debates in the halls of Congress, it's something you're likely feeling in your day-to-day life. Vaccines, school curriculums, climate change, what you define as a human rights issue, even who you call a friend. Some say we've moved beyond the point of discussion. But when words fail, what comes next? In conversation with Malcolm Nance, Anne Applebaum, and Peniel Joseph, we take a deeper look at what we mean when we say civil war, how exactly the country reached this political moment, and where we go from here.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In a compelling discussion, historian Peniel Joseph, author of 'The Third Reconstruction,' connects today's movements for racial justice with the civil rights era. He highlights the transformative impact of Black Lives Matter compared to the narrative of the Obama presidency. The conversation dives into themes of American exceptionalism, examining the January 6th Capitol riot alongside historical events like the Wilmington coup. Joseph underscores the ongoing struggle for a multiracial democracy and the importance of hope in the fight for equality.

Dr. Peniel Joseph discusses the 'outside agitator' trope used to discredit protesters throughout history. Exploring its impact on civil rights movements like Black Lives Matter. Unpacking the historical roots and implications of this conspiracy trope on marginalized groups.

Peniel Joseph, a history professor and director at the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy, dives into the pivotal year of 1963 in the Civil Rights Movement. He discusses the profound impact of MLK's ‘Letter from Birmingham Jail,’ the effects of JFK's assassination, and James Baldwin's moral imperative for justice. Joseph also reflects on voting rights post-Shelby v. Holder, federal interventions led by Lyndon Johnson, and contrasts historical and contemporary civil rights protests. His insights illuminate the ongoing struggle for democracy and racial justice.