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

10 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 12min
April 21, 2025
The podcast delves into a tumultuous day marked by the death of Pope Francis and the resulting market instability. It highlights his poignant final public appearance on Easter Sunday. The discussion shifts to political implications, focusing on President Trump's controversial decisions and Harvard University's legal battles over funding. Furthermore, the podcast underscores the alarming effects of government actions on crucial research and cybersecurity, raising questions about how these choices shape lives and protect privacy.

14 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 16min
April 20, 2025
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15 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 26min
April 18, 2025
Dive into the historical tensions leading to the American Revolution, focusing on the unrest between colonists and British authorities. Discover the pivotal role of the Stamp Act and the rise of the Sons of Liberty in escalating conflicts. Explore the bravery of ordinary heroes like Paul Revere, showcasing how their quiet courage shaped the fight for democracy. From militia tactics to the dramatic events of April 18, 1775, this journey through history reveals the deep roots of resistance and the human stories behind the struggle for self-governance.

24 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 11min
April 17, 2025
Get full access to Letters from an American at heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/subscribe

17 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 12min
April 16, 2025
The wrongful detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia highlights the darker side of political advocacy, revealing the complexities of judicial authority. As economic turmoil unfolds, the discussion delves into the legal ramifications of current policies affecting due process and industries like farming and tourism. Tension in Maine over gender identity laws raises concerns about federal funding and transgender rights. Finally, the podcast addresses the implications of IRS audits and potential presidential influence on tax-exempt organizations, questioning individual rights under the current administration.

34 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 15min
April 15, 2025
Significant protests erupted outside a courthouse regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia's detention hearing in El Salvador, with legal experts discussing accountability for the Trump administration. The media's portrayal of Garcia reveals discrepancies in immigration policy, sparking public concern over misleading narratives. Political turmoil unfolds as a town hall reveals discontent with federal actions on immigration and trade. Meanwhile, Harvard defends its medical research against government pressure, emphasizing the importance of academic freedom and innovation.

17 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 11min
April 14, 2025
A contentious meeting between the U.S. President and El Salvador's leader highlights a chilling disconnect between serious legal issues and the lighter attitudes of officials. The discussion digs into the extradition of Abrego Garcia, questioning political maneuvers and the impact of deporting U.S. citizens. It also tackles pressing legal issues like government overreach and statelessness, while addressing a troubling attempted arson case, ultimately calling for a societal commitment to combat violence and improve community standards.

25 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 12min
April 13, 2025
Dive into the gripping legal saga of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man facing controversial deportation and the fight for justice by his family. Explore the urgent issues surrounding non-citizens’ rights in the U.S., alongside alarming trends in human smuggling. Witness a powerful moment of solidarity among union workers rallying for worker rights, emphasizing unity and the importance of protecting everyone’s rights, regardless of their citizenship status.

14 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 15min
April 12, 2025
The discussion kicks off with a look at the alarming use of insecure communication during military actions under the Trump administration, revealing unexpected economic fallout. The conversation then shifts to the mid-20th century, unpacking the evolution of democracy and civil rights, highlighting key moments like Brown v. Board of Education. Lastly, the podcast dives into the resurgence of ideological extremism, linking historical white supremacist ideologies to contemporary political tensions and the aftermath of the Capitol riot.

16 snips
Apr 12, 2025 • 12min
April 11, 2025
The discussion opens with alarming staffing changes in U.S. security agencies, revealing the potential consequences of recent firings and confirmations. Concerns about the growing politicization of the military are front and center. The conversation shifts to the invasion of privacy, highlighting invasive immigration enforcement tactics that exploit data for surveillance. The collaboration of agencies raises crucial questions about the rights of both undocumented immigrants and citizens, drawing attention to the risks of wrongful deportations and legal pitfalls.
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