

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

12 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 10min
March 19, 2025
A Fox News panel sparks debate over a federal judge's ruling affecting the Trump administration's deportation policies. The discussion reveals fears about judicial power and national security. The rise of autocratic sentiments among right-wing commentators raises alarms about democracy. Historical riots highlight public unrest against perceived judicial corruption, echoing today's political tensions. The episode critiques political disregard for established laws, emphasizing the ramifications of deportation practices on innocent lives.

10 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 11min
March 18, 2025
A U.S. District Judge puts a stop to deportations from the Trump era, signaling a clash between the courts and the administration. Political controversies arise as Trump's comments about judges spark debates on his governance. The intricate dynamics between Putin and Trump take center stage, revealing a humorous yet troubling phone call. Meanwhile, health concerns about bird flu raise eyebrows, alongside the controversial deportation of Venezuelan nationals, highlighting ongoing human rights issues.

9 snips
Mar 18, 2025 • 14min
March 17, 2025
Explore the legacy of Code Talkers, showcasing the critical role of indigenous servicemen in WWII and their overlooked stories. Dive into the troubling proposed changes to Social Security, highlighted by a poignant account of an elderly man's wrongful loss of benefits. Discuss the alarming cuts to vital U.S. agencies and the growing risk to democracy and national safety. Finally, reflect on the consequences of privatized disaster relief and the complex challenges surrounding government aid distribution in times of crisis.

8 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 13min
March 16, 2025
Dive into the intriguing use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act as the President targets individuals tied to a Venezuelan gang. Explore the historical and legal implications swirling around expulsion orders, with advocacy groups challenging due process. The discussion also highlights alarming confrontations with law firms advocating for Democrats and reflects on the precarious state of democracy and law. A personal anecdote from the president's golf club adds a fascinating layer to the analysis of power dynamics.

Mar 16, 2025 • 8min
March 15, 2025
March 15th holds a pivotal place in U.S. history, marking Maine's admission to the Union in 1820. This event escalated the tensions between free and slave states, altering the power dynamics in the nation. The podcast unpacks the Missouri Compromise's significance and how Maine’s role in the abolitionist movement shaped political change. It offers insights into the influential figures from Maine who championed the cause of freedom, setting the stage for the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War.

Mar 15, 2025 • 13min
March 14, 2025
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Mar 14, 2025 • 10min
March 13, 2025
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21 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 14min
March 12, 2025
Delve into the effects of Trump's hefty aluminum and steel tariffs and how they sparked a trade war with the EU and Canada. Explore the historical roots of conservatism through Edmund Burke's critiques, contrasting traditional values with modern Republican actions. Discover the geopolitical consequences of Trump's pro-Russia stance and cuts to medical research. Plus, uncover allegations of corruption in the government and how strategic political moves influence crucial elections like the Wisconsin Supreme Court race.

16 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 13min
March 11, 2025
Amid protests, backlash against Tesla owners rises, with competitors eyeing discontent to lure customers. The stock market faces turmoil as trade tensions escalate, leading to revenue forecast revisions by companies. Economic shifts hit airlines with new tariffs, while social media outages coincide with insider stock sales at an electric vehicle firm. The political landscape sees significant workforce cuts in the Department of Education, and a heated exchange between a senator and an entrepreneur highlights the divide over Ukraine support.

Mar 11, 2025 • 12min
March 10, 2025
Exploring the fallout from Trump's economic and immigration decisions brings forth a fascinating discussion on tariffs and free speech. The controversial arrest of Mahmoud Khalil adds layers to the narrative of the America-first agenda. Meanwhile, listeners are taken through the tumultuous landscape of the stock market, as recession fears loom large. The dissonance between political promises and economic performance creates a gripping dialogue on consumer experiences overlooked in the face of rising inflation.