Sarah Gold McBride
Lecturer in American Studies at the University of California at Berkeley. She is the author of the book, Whiskarology, The Culture of Hair in 19th Century America.
Best podcasts with Sarah Gold McBride
Ranked by the Snipd community
Aug 6, 2025 • 31min
What Beards Tell Us About Power, Politics And How We See Each Other
In this engaging conversation, Sarah Gold McBride, a UC Berkeley lecturer and author of "Whiskarology," and HuffPost's senior political reporter Igor Bobik dive into the historical significance of beards in politics. They discuss how facial hair has fluctuated as a symbol of masculinity and power, tracing its path from Lincoln to modern politicians. The resurgence of beards among male leaders is examined, revealing insights into societal perceptions and its impact on voter preferences. The episode culminates in exploring how grooming choices shape personal and political identities.
Apr 24, 2025 • 28min
Whiskerology: the meaning of hair in colonial America
Join historian Sarah Gold McBride as she unpacks the fascinating cultural significance of hair in 19th century America. Explore how hair thickness, color, and style were used to judge race and gender. Delve into beards as symbols of masculinity and their connection to citizenship. Discover the cultural and religious importance of long hair for women, and how male hairstyles evolved, reflecting societal shifts. McBride also reveals the surprising link between hair color and perceptions of criminality during urban growth.
