My History Can Beat Up Your Politics

In our series on American commerce, a look at three instances of when U.S. commerce was stopped, for a variety of reasons.  The embargo of 1807 is an important part of the Presidency of Thomas Jefferson, not often examined in detailed compared to other events. It brought serious economic problems, but was held up by Jefferson as an experiment by a peaceful power. We also examine his Treasury Secretary Gallatin, who had to implement the plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the 1970's a President, seeking to reduce inflation, tried a new tactic. Simply not spending the money that congress appropriated. OK, it wasn't entirely new, but it had been used in defense spending after the war where demand was needed or in very small amounts. This was billions of collars. As we discuss impoundment could be considered unfair - because a President could technically pass nice sounding bills and then later, kill the funding, thus getting credit for the good image of legislation without having to execute.As President Trump is using a similar technique, we look at impoundment and what Congress did in reaction (myriad steps from creating a new Budget Office to legislation to monitoring like hawks, to going to the press). We also look at the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to citizenship decided by birth, the story of Wong Kim Ark, a young man born in the US of Chinese descent who was denied entry to his country, should be on a few minds. We tell that story in this episode, along with the Sand Lot protests that led to his change in status, and the 1804 about a ship that helped reinforce their thinking. This and thoughts about early Trump Presidency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An unknown man in a forgotten office develops a number that makes and breaks Presidents. A poet turns his song away from beautiful pastures and towards a metal object. Two 19th century men tire themselves out making machines. They can't know their work will one day put us on the Moon  And a man tries to invent an un-commerce, but may have built the 21st century economy instead. In the fifth episode of our series on American commerce, we look at the appraisal and measuring and counting of business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Pennsylvania Station, where the echoes of travelers' stories breathe life into the bustling space. Discover the historical rivalries among American cities, framed through a tense ticket line scene. Explore the complexities of urban competition and the shared human experiences that shape our journeys. Plus, find out how to unlock more exclusive insights on Patreon!

Dive into the fascinating history of air commerce, from the early days of balloon flight supported by George Washington to the rise of majestic airships and towering skyscrapers. Discover remarkable innovations like mechanical sprinklers and the iconic Woolworth building. Hear about the tragic rise and fall of airships like the USS Shenandoah, and how it shaped public perception alongside the infamous Hindenburg disaster. Journey through the evolution of aviation and communication technologies that revolutionized travel and delivery.

Explore the extravagant shopping habits of Mary Todd Lincoln and their cultural significance in 19th-century America. Discover the transformation of retail after the Civil War, from haggling to fixed prices, and the rise of iconic department stores. Dive into the nostalgia of shopping malls while discussing their decline in modern retail. The podcast also highlights the evolution of sound and visual technologies, plus the rich musical legacy of Tin Pan Alley and the Brill Building, showcasing the interplay between commerce, culture, and innovation.

A mysterious crash. A strange contraption. A fateful race, an outbreak of violent activity and a crafty watch-seller. A look at the railroad history of America and the changes the railroad brought. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Random, yet relevant stories about Jimmy Carter as a candidate, a governor and President Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For Wall Street Insiders, Black Monday was not the worst day. The next day, Terrible Tuesday was an agonizing test of the financial system. As part of our series on the commercial history of the United States, we examine the events of Tuesday the 20th. And we look at the history of insurance in America, the reasons there is a stock market, what was learned and not learned from 1987 and a few other things. A Note - We are pleased to be part of the Airwave Media Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices