

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

16 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 8min
June 25, 2025
Tensions escalate at a NATO summit as debates ignite over military strikes against Iran, raising questions about media accountability. A clash erupts between supporters of the strikes and calls for transparency from Congress. The discussion shifts to the implications for nuclear diplomacy, highlighting how these actions may affect Iran's nuclear ambitions. The episode intricately ties together U.S. leadership changes and domestic political challenges in Israel, showcasing the complexities of global security.

31 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 11min
June 24, 2025
The aftermath of a ceasefire announcement between Israel and Iran raises skepticism among Trump’s advisors, suggesting complex military intervention debates. Controversial social media posts spark public backlash around immigration, focusing on mental health and law enforcement incidents. Meanwhile, a new detention center in the Everglades stirs up controversy due to its staggering costs and links to national security concerns, particularly regarding Iranian sleeper cells. The interplay of these events reveals deep divides in public perception and political loyalty.

63 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 12min
June 23, 2025
Dive into the complex web of U.S.-Iran relations, exploring military decisions and the historical context of Trump's presidency. Discover how the withdrawal from the nuclear deal escalated tensions. Delve into the legal ramifications of military actions, including a Supreme Court ruling on migrant deportations that sparked ethical debates. The podcast highlights the critical intersection of governance, ethics, and international politics in today's landscape.

35 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 15min
June 22, 2025
Tensions run high as the U.S. responds militarily to Iranian nuclear facilities, prompting debates over the reality of Trump's claims of success. Republicans are divided on the bombing, questioning the intelligence and motives behind the action. The discussion shifts to constitutional worries surrounding unilateral military authority, highlighting fears of bypassing Congress. The fragility of American democracy also comes under scrutiny, with critiques of the administration's Middle East policies and a humorous take on congressional inaction.

31 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 6min
June 21, 2025
Tensions escalate in the Middle East as a major U.S. military operation targets Iranian nuclear sites, raising questions about regional stability. Insights from military leaders dissect the potential fallout of this decisive action. The discussion also delves into the implications for U.S. foreign policy, highlighting the complexities in navigating peace amidst conflict. Tune in for a captivating exploration of recent military decisions and their overarching impact on international relations.

45 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 14min
June 20, 2025
Explore the controversial tactics used by ICE to apprehend individuals, raising questions about public perception and deceptive statistics. Discover the political ramifications of arrests aimed at opposing federal actions, showcasing their impact on media narratives. Delve into Trump's use of storytelling to undermine rivals and the fallout within his party. Examine public concerns over economic issues and draw parallels with historical political suppression tactics. Finally, discuss federal overreach and its implications for local governance and democracy.

35 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 13min
June 19, 2025
Explore the evolving U.S. negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program and the historical backdrop of the JCPOA. Tune into the analysis of the escalating conflict amidst Israeli military strikes and varied responses from U.S. officials. Discover the implications of Trump’s controversial comments after the G7 summit on Middle East policy, revealing a split among his supporters. Dive into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and military spending, highlighting internal conflicts and the impact of military deployment in American cities.

12 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 11min
June 18, 2025
Explore the rich history of Juneteenth, from its origins marking the emancipation of enslaved Americans in Texas to its status as a federal holiday in 2021. Delve into the struggles for equality and recognition surrounding the celebration, highlighting ongoing debates about its significance in today's society. The discussion emphasizes the evolving national attitudes towards this pivotal event, showcasing the journey toward greater inclusivity and understanding in American history.

24 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 11min
June 17, 2025
The podcast dives into Trump's control over U.S. steel and draws alarming parallels to organized crime governance. It critiques his environmental policies, highlighting reduced enforcement against fossil fuels and effects on public lands. The evolution of organized crime into a global threat is explored, along with its ties to historical political events. The discussion reflects on Nixon's resignation, emphasizing accountability and the enduring struggle for social justice amid contemporary political challenges.

21 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 11min
June 16, 2025
The podcast dives into a shocking shooting incident and its political ramifications, highlighting the impact of misinformation. It reflects on the poignant loss felt on Father's Day, sparking debates about violence and social media. Additionally, tensions between Iran and Israel escalate, with critiques of Trump's erratic behavior at the G7. The discussion also covers significant immigration policy changes and a new mobile service from the Trump organization that seems more about branding than innovation.