Richard Bell

In this engaging discussion, Richard Bell, a history professor at the University of Maryland and author of The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, unpacks Thomas Paine's turbulent journey. From his meteoric rise with Common Sense to becoming a political pariah, Bell explores how Paine's radical ideas fueled independence yet ultimately led to his alienation. The talk delves into Paine's impactful writings, his experiences during the French Revolution, and the complex legacy he left behind, urging listeners to reconsider his role in shaping democracy.

Richard Bell, a British-born, American-trained historian and professor at the University of Maryland, delves into the American Revolution's global significance. He connects the Boston Tea Party to international trade and shares insights on varying British opinions, including anti-war sentiments. The discussion highlights the roles of Hessians and Indigenous peoples, illustrating complex alliances. Bell also details France's crucial naval support and Spain's overlooked involvement, emphasizing the Revolution's lasting influence on future independence movements.

Join historian Richard Bell from the University of Maryland as he unpacks the global dimensions of the American Revolution. He discusses what defines a 'World War,' highlighting the roles of France, Spain, and the Netherlands, as well as the involvement of diverse groups including indigenous peoples and black refugees. Richard explores France's strategic entry into the conflict, Spain's covert support, and how the Caribbean served as a crucial theater. He reveals the long-term global impacts, reshaping empires and trade networks in ways that still resonate today.