

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

46 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 13min
April 9, 2025
Discover the pivotal moment of General Robert E. Lee's surrender on April 9, 1865, and its profound implications for democracy in America. Dive into the ongoing fight against white supremacy, exploring Jim Crow and Juan Crow laws, and the role of education in the civil rights movement. Uncover the evolution of political rhetoric, from comic books to today's contentious debates, and reflect on the echoes of history, particularly the January 6 events, drawing parallels to Civil War divisions and their lasting impact on American society.

36 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 11min
April 8, 2025
Dive into the turmoil caused by trade tariffs and their ripple effects on the stock market. Discover how these policies intertwine with cultural themes like masculinity and economic identity among the Republican base. Explore the shift from collaboration to dominance in governance, analyzing the implications on international relations and negotiation strategies. Delve into the complex power dynamics shaping today's economic landscape.

28 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 8min
April 7, 2025
Explore a day of wild stock market swings triggered by a rumor about tariff delays, revealing how trade policies can send shockwaves through the economy. Discover the rich history of income taxation in the U.S., showing how financial burdens shifted to the wealthy during the Gilded Age. The discussion connects past tax policies to today’s political climate, shedding light on economic equity and the services available to everyday Americans. It's a captivating dive into how history shapes our financial landscape!

67 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 15min
April 6, 2025
The podcast dives into the fallout from President Trump's tariff decisions, revealing sharp declines in the stock market and concerns from farmers. It highlights the chaos at the Social Security Administration, where budget cuts are affecting vulnerable communities. There's a discussion on national security, focusing on firings at the NSA and a wrongful deportation case. Legal challenges regarding unlawful detentions are also explored, alongside the market's reactions to the evolving political landscape.

36 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 10min
April 4, 2025
The discussion kicks off with the fallout from China’s staggering 34% tax on U.S. imports, sparking a market crash. Economic challenges deepen as tariffs fuel public discontent and fears of recession. Legal battles loom over immigration policies, with a federal court's ruling igniting debates on executive power. Amid these crises, a high-profile fundraising dinner hosted by Trump captures attention, juxtaposing economic woes with themes of community respect and the return of fallen soldiers.

45 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 15min
April 3, 2025
The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the economic impacts of Trump's tariffs, highlighting a dramatic decline in global stock markets. It raises concerns about how these tariffs challenge traditional trade norms and their alignment with authoritarian practices. The talk shifts to job cuts in governmental agencies and their role in fostering authoritarian governance. Finally, there's a focus on the economic strain from impending tax hikes, as well as the international backlash impacting American manufacturing and agriculture.

38 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 10min
April 2, 2025
The podcast dives into the stock market's reaction to a sudden 10% import tariff and its global economic fallout. Economists raise concerns about a looming recession, linking high tariffs to historical economic instability. It also scrutinizes the constitutional implications of presidential actions taken under the guise of a national emergency. With rising tensions, discussions on the future of globalization and economic stability take center stage, offering listeners a thought-provoking analysis of current events.

39 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 10min
April 1, 2025
A senator delivers a gripping 25-hour speech on the Senate floor, rallying for democracy in turbulent times. Drawing inspiration from civil rights leaders, the conversation emphasizes unity and the power of collective action. Key challenges facing American democracy are dissected, shedding light on the urgent need for citizen engagement and activism. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their role in shaping a resilient society.

21 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 13min
March 31, 2025
Dive into historical frustrations as Seward's letter to Lincoln reveals radical suggestions to unify the Civil War-torn nation. Explore the U.S. ambitions concerning Greenland, intertwining international relations with the domestic political landscape, including the effects of gerrymandering. Witness the controversial tactic of handing out cash at a political rally, sparking debates on campaign financing and the influence of wealth on voting decisions, showcasing the complex interplay of politics and ethics.

44 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 14min
March 30, 2025
Recent tariff announcements by Trump, labeled 'Liberation Day', spark heated debate over their economic impact and political ramifications. The podcast dives into the history of voting rights, highlighting the ongoing struggle since the 14th and 15th Amendments. It also critiques the erosion of civil rights under the Trump era, particularly regarding immigrants. Lastly, unsettling parallels are drawn between today’s MAGA Republicans and historical Confederates, raising concerns about the future of democracy and governance.