Lectures in History

Andrea Pappas, an art history professor at Santa Clara University, dives into the rich world of 19th-century American landscape painting, particularly the Hudson River School. She explores how artists like Thomas Cole depicted nature as a sacred space and its role in shaping national identity. Pappas critiques the romanticized portrayals of Native Americans and discusses the evolution from idyllic pastoral scenes to industrial influences in art. This conversation reveals the complex narratives around civilization, nature, and humanity's moral responsibilities.

In this engaging discussion, Bruce Hunt, a history professor at the University of Texas, delves into the monumental development of the atomic bomb during World War II. He highlights General Leslie Groves' commanding leadership and the complex dynamics with Oppenheimer that shaped the project. Hunt recounts the innovative yet challenging processes of uranium enrichment and the unexpected successes of untrained workers. He also explores the legacy of the Hanford site, shedding light on its cultural impact and environmental considerations.

Historian Heath Hardage Lee, author of "The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon," talks about the life and times of the former First Lady (1969-74). She says that Pat Nixon, who was voted "Most Admired Woman in the World" in 1972, was largely mis-portrayed by the press, who characterized her as being elusive and "plastic." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Georgetown University history professor Darragh Gannon discusses the Irish diaspora and the role of the United States during "The Troubles" and in the Northen Ireland peace process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

University of Southern California sociology professor Brittany Friedman discusses the formation and evolution of American prison gangs in the 20th and 21st centuries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Yale University professor Marlene Daut dives into the life of Henri Christophe, a former enslaved person who rose to become the king of Haiti. She explores the brutal realities leading up to the 1791 revolution and the complex power dynamics involving figures like Toussaint Louverture and Napoleon Bonaparte. Daut highlights Christophe's efforts to legitimize black sovereignty and his architectural triumphs, alongside the cultural tensions surrounding religion and independence that continue to shape Haiti's identity.

Juan Mora, a history professor at Indiana University, dives deep into the U.S. Border Patrol's evolution shaped by 20th-century immigration laws. He discusses the critical impact of key legislations like the 1917 Immigration Act and the 1924 National Origins Act on agency formation. Mora highlights early challenges faced by the Border Patrol, including funding and ethnic tensions, and the complexities of its 100-mile jurisdiction. The conversation also touches on the increasing representation of Latino agents and their motivations to join the force.

Louisiana State University journalism professor John Maxwell Hamilton discusses U.S. government propaganda efforts during World War I. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

College of William & Mary lecturer Amy Stallings discusses the history of the 1607 Jamestown settlement in Virginia and efforts over four centuries to preserve and remember the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duke University professor Cecilia Marquez discusses Latino migration trends in the 20th and early 21st centuries and how Latinos shaped the culture, development and economics of the American South. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices