

Letters from an American
Heather Cox Richardson
Heather Cox Richardson's narrated newsletter about the history behind today's politics. heathercoxrichardson.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

29 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 12min
January 16, 2026
A Nobel medal gift for Trump raises eyebrows and ignites laughter as he receives hockey memorabilia, reflecting on his 'nice gesture.' Meanwhile, his fixation with Greenland resurfaces, stirring concerns about NATO's stability and international law implications. Scholars warn that aggression in Greenland could spark global conflict and prompt military responses from allies. Public sentiment is against any attack, with lawmakers from both parties making diplomatic efforts in Denmark to reassure international partners.

43 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 14min
January 15, 2026
Key topics include the minimal release of Epstein files despite new legislation, and the contentious political dynamics surrounding subpoenas involving the Clintons. The podcast discusses a tragic ICE shooting, contrasting government claims about gang threats with reality. It covers recent protests in Minnesota and tensions from an agent's shooting. Trump's threat to invoke the Insurrection Act raises legal questions, while his remarks on elections spark debate. Additionally, a significant Venezuelan oil sale brings up legal concerns.

39 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 9min
January 14, 2026
Discover the significance of January 14, 1784, when Congress ratified the Treaty of Paris, marking official U.S. independence. Learn about the obstacles faced during the treaty's ratification and how the American Revolution influenced global politics. Delve into Spain's efforts to capture Gibraltar and British strategies to reshape alliances. Hear about the challenges posed by the weak Confederation Congress and the dramatic race to secure a quorum. Finally, explore how this treaty laid the groundwork for further nation-building, leading to the 1788 Constitution.

42 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 12min
January 13, 2026
The podcast dives into the deployment of federal agents in Democratic cities, sparking national protests following a controversial shooting. It highlights aggressive tactics used by these agents, drawing criticism from various fronts. Analyzing the political implications, the discussion reveals how ICE is perceived as a tool for MAGA rhetoric. Tension arises as white women lead protests, challenging stereotypes while facing backlash. Legal battles unfold in Illinois and Minnesota over these operations, coinciding with a shift in public opinion on ICE's role.

29 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 12min
January 12, 2026
Tune in for an exploration of Senator Mark Kelly's lawsuit against Defense officials over alleged retaliation. Discover insights into Pete Hegseth's controversial military background and the bipartisan video from veteran Democrats urging troops to uphold the Constitution. Unravel the Administration's aggressive online responses and threats following these developments. Delve into critical discussions about military accountability and the implications of a recent attack raising questions of wartime ethics. It's a riveting look at current military and political dynamics.

53 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 13min
January 11, 2026
This week tackles fast-moving political developments with a focus on the DOJ's delay in releasing Epstein files and its implications for Trump's campaign. The Supreme Court's decision on National Guard deployments raises eyebrows. A military coup in Venezuela sees the capture of Maduro, and political tensions over oil control escalate. Congressional protests challenge administration actions. Trump's provocative social media claims about Venezuela stir controversy, while criticisms about federal independence grow amid investigations involving the Fed.

65 snips
Jan 11, 2026 • 16min
January 10, 2026
The podcast delves into the controversial shooting of Renee Good and the political narrative shaped by Vice President J.D. Vance's actions. It highlights how a leaked video contradicts the administration’s claims about the incident. The discussion draws parallels to the Ahmaud Arbery case, emphasizing the implications of federal agents' presence on public perception. The recruitment push for ICE and the targeting of Minnesota's Somali community are also explored, along with public backlash against ICE’s actions and the declining approval ratings following these events.

35 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 7min
January 9, 2026
Explore the chilling parallels between past and present as the show delves into a wartime pamphlet defining fascism. Discover the methods used by fascists, including force and propaganda, to undermine democracy. The discussion warns of America's own history with mobs and bigotry, drawing parallels to contemporary threats. Learn about tactics like division and misinformation used to gain power. The importance of recognizing disguised fascists and the duty of citizens in defending democracy is emphasized, highlighting the fragility of freedoms.

60 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 14min
January 8, 2026
The podcast dives into the tragic shooting of Renee Nicole Good, highlighting its potential political ramifications for the Trump administration. Historical parallels are drawn, linking this incident to shifts in public opinion on justice. There's sharp criticism of the DOJ for its handling of Epstein files and a discussion on misleading narratives propagated by officials about the shooting. The episode also covers local investigations, bipartisan efforts for transparency, and the Senate's actions regarding military authority and commemorations of January 6.

30 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 16min
January 7, 2026
In a gripping discussion, a tragic incident unfolds as an ICE agent fatally shoots a legal observer in Minneapolis, challenging official narratives. Video evidence emerges, contradicting statements from the Trump administration. Political responses heat up as local leaders call for investigations and demand accountability. Meanwhile, the administration discusses controlling Venezuelan oil revenue and increasing military spending, revealing a tangled web of actions and consequences. This analysis dives deep into the intersection of policy, community outrage, and truth.


