Throughline

Leslie Regan, a historian and professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, dives into the history of abortion before Roe v. Wade. She reveals how abortion was once commonplace, facilitated by women and midwives, before a medical crusade shifted that narrative. Discussion topics include the rise and fall of figures like Madame Restell, the male-dominated medical assault on women's reproductive autonomy, and the ethical and racial motivations behind the criminalization of abortion in the 19th century.

Michael Studeman, an Assistant Professor of Rhetoric at Penn State, dives into the intriguing history of the first U.S. Department of Education created in 1867 after the Civil War. He discusses its ambitious inception aimed at unifying a fractured nation yet highlights how it was essentially shut down a year later. Studeman reveals how figures like Henry Barnard and Frederick Douglass were pivotal in advocating for educational equity, reflecting on the struggles for literacy among formerly enslaved Americans and the ongoing debates over federal versus local educational control.

Kirsten Downey, author of 'The Woman Behind the New Deal', sheds light on Frances Perkins, the first female cabinet member in U.S. history. They discuss Perkins' transformative journey after witnessing the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which propelled her commitment to labor rights. Downey reveals how Perkins shaped critical policies like Social Security and the minimum wage, navigating a male-dominated political landscape. Listeners learn about her enduring legacy and influence on American social safety nets that continue to impact lives today.

In this discussion, legal experts Sarah Sayo and Paul Butler delve into the complexities of the Fourth Amendment and its intended limits on government power. Sayo explores how historical figures like James Otis influenced constitutional thought on search and seizure. Butler highlights the implications of landmark cases, including Terry v. Ohio, revealing the troubling intersection of racial profiling and police authority. Together, they dissect how interpretations of 'reasonable' searches continue to challenge civil liberties today.

Michael Bryant, a historian and legal studies professor, and David Bosco, author and expert on the International Criminal Court, dive deep into the evolution of war crimes and accountability. They trace war crimes from the U.S. Civil War to the Nuremberg Trials and beyond. The conversation highlights the complexities of international law and the challenges of prosecuting atrocities. They also discuss the significance of The Hague and the ongoing relationship between the U.S. and the ICC amid global power dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, Paul Camacho, a retired IRS special agent and board member at the Mob Museum, dives into the fascinating history of tax enforcement and organized crime. He illuminates how the IRS transformed from a financial agency into a powerful crime-fighting force during Prohibition, particularly in the pursuit of Al Capone. Camacho also reveals the unique roles played by government officials in law enforcement and explores the evolving relationship between taxation and public trust, all set against the backdrop of America's tumultuous history.

Anya Steinberg, a producer shedding light on pivotal moments in American history, discusses the intriguing saga of California's 'bum blockade' in the face of the Dust Bowl migration. She explores how the migration influenced Los Angeles' landscape and law enforcement dynamics. The conversation dives into the LAPD's controversial policing strategies, the social stigma surrounding migrants, and the transformative personal stories of resilience amidst adversity. Listeners will gain insight into the historical complexities of migration rights and community belonging.

Chelsea Connaboy, a health and science journalist, and Premila Nattison, a history professor at Barnard College, dive into the complex landscape of motherhood. They unpack the myth of the ideal mother, discussing pressures and unrealistic expectations. The podcast explores the stereotypes of maternal instincts and the 'Welfare Queen,' linking these narratives to broader societal frameworks influenced by race and capitalism. Through personal stories and activism, they advocate for a more nuanced understanding of motherhood and the often-overlooked labor behind it.

The podcast delves into the assassination of President James A. Garfield, revealing the twisted motivations of Charles Guiteau and the public's reaction. It discusses Garfield's humble beginnings and his commitment to abolition during tumultuous times. The conversation explores the spoils system in U.S. politics and the internal conflicts within the Republican Party. The tragic event inadvertently sparked crucial civil service reforms, leading to a merit-based government. Ultimately, Garfield's legacy became a catalyst for transforming the federal workforce.

Daniel Tischner, a political science professor at the University of Oregon, dives into the fascinating history and implications of the Alien Enemies Act. He discusses how this 1798 law has resurfaced under President Trump's executive order, sparking legal battles and debates over immigration policies. Tischner explores past uses of the Act during major conflicts and its impact on civil liberties. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between national security and individual rights, shedding light on the evolving nature of executive power in America.