Breaking History
The Free Press
Sometimes the news moves so fast, you have to look closely to know if you’ve seen it before. And that’s what this show is about. Breaking History breaks down the news, by breaking down history. We cover everything from LBJ and the Roman Republic to Donald Trump and the chaos at Columbia. This twice a month show from The Free Press delivers the best historians, authors, and reporters by mining the archives of human experience to figure out the present. George Santayana wrote, “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Tune in to Breaking History to resist the repetition.
Episodes
Mentioned books
18 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 12min
How a Russian Spy Destroyed a Beautiful Mind
Jefferson Morley, author of 'The Ghost' and an expert on intelligence, delves into the intricate world of espionage and disinformation. He unveils the life of James Jesus Angleton, the CIA’s paranoia prophet, and how his pursuit of truth amidst deceit led to his mental unraveling. The discussion spans from historical espionage tactics to the modern implications of Russiagate, revealing how misinformation continues to shape American perceptions. Morley’s insights blend the personal and professional, showcasing the enduring echoes of Cold War anxieties.
27 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 30min
The Birth of Cool: How Air Conditioning Changed Everything
Salvatore Basile, author of *Cool: How Air Conditioning Changed Everything*, shares how air conditioning transformed society from a luxury into a necessity. He reveals the revolutionary impact of Willis Carrier's invention, altering architecture, urban planning, and even workplace productivity. The discussion delves into its role in turning movie theaters into summer retreats, changing consumer behavior. Basile also reflects on the environmental challenges of AC technology and the exciting innovations promising a sustainable future.
4 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 28min
Restless Nation | The Red-Green Alliance: The Making of Modern Iran (Part 2)
Abbas Milani, a historian and director of Iranian studies at Stanford University, delves into the crucial role of Ayatollah Khomeini in toppling Iran's 2,500-year monarchy. The discussion unfolds the Red-Green Alliance, revealing how liberals and leftists fueled Khomeini's revolution, a partnership with consequences that resonate today. Milani illuminates Khomeini's innovative communication strategies and the brutal realities that followed the revolution, highlighting the enduring struggle for freedom and democracy in Iran.
4 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 10min
BONUS | Eli Lake & Josh Hammer on Russiagate: Do the New Documents Support Treason?
Josh Hammer, a political commentator and attorney known for his center-right perspectives, joins the discussion on the controversial Russiagate documents. They dissect claims of treason related to Russian interference in the 2016 election and the implications of these revelations on public trust and government integrity. The conversation critiques key figures' roles and the politicization of intelligence, while advocating for a return to principled governance. Hammer emphasizes the importance of transparency and the long-lasting effects of media narratives on public perception.
22 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 12min
Restless Nation | The Making of Modern Iran (Part 1)
This week, Abbas Aminat, a Yale historian and author of 'Iran, A Modern History,' brings his expertise on Iran’s tumultuous past. He dives into the cycles of revolt that shaped modern Iran, from the Constitutional Revolution to the rise of authoritarianism under the Pahlavi dynasty. Aminat discusses key opposition figures and the struggle for democracy against a backdrop of social upheaval and foreign intervention. Listeners gain insight into Iran's rich history and the complexities still affecting its governance today.
26 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 57min
America Has Always Been a Dangerous Idea
As the nation nears its 250th birthday, the discussion delves into the radical power of the Declaration of Independence. It highlights its legacy as a catalyst for revolutionary movements around the globe. The complexities of America's founding ideals are examined alongside their contradictions, particularly regarding equality. The profound influence of these revolutionary ideas is reflected in both American history and ongoing global struggles for freedom, raising questions about their relevance in today's society.
Jun 19, 2025 • 48min
BONUS: David Albright and Eli Lake on Iran’s Nuclear Program
David Albright, a physicist and president of the Institute for Science and International Security, dives into the complexities of Iran's nuclear program. He discusses the escalating uranium enrichment and the secrecy surrounding Iran's ambitions, raising concerns for Israel and the U.S. Strategies for neutralizing key nuclear assets are examined, emphasizing the importance of intelligence and inspections. Albright also explores the risks of military action, the potential consequences of a regime collapse in Iran, and the broader implications for regional security.
Jun 18, 2025 • 57min
The Buckley Stops Here: Trump And The Death of Conservative Civility
Matthew Continetti, a Free Press columnist and author of *The Right*, discusses the centennial of William F. Buckley Jr., a key figure in American conservatism. He explores Buckley's transformative influence and philosophical battles, contrasting it with today's politicized climate under Donald Trump. The dialogue delves into Buckley's legacy regarding race and civil rights, his founding of National Review, and the ideological divide within conservatism today, advocating for a return to civility and thoughtful dissent.
17 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 23min
BONUS: Haviv Rettig Gur and Eli Lake on Israel's Strike
In this insightful discussion, Middle East analyst Haviv Rettig Gur provides a deep dive into Israel’s recent military strikes on Iran. He unpacks the motivations behind these actions and explores the reactions from different global perspectives. Gur discusses the implications for Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the potential for escalating tensions. Additionally, he analyzes the U.S.-Israel dynamic under Trump, the challenges facing Hamas, and what these changes could mean for the future stability of the region.
19 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 10min
BONUS: Conversations with Coleman & Bari Weiss
Bari Weiss, founder of The Free Press and former op-ed writer for The New York Times, joins Coleman Hughes for a captivating discussion. Together, they tackle the rise of antisemitism and the complexities of identity politics in today's climate. Weiss shares her transformative journey from mainstream media to independent journalism, emphasizing the need for diverse voices and honest dialogue. They explore the role of faith in personal growth and the challenges of parenting in a polarized world, making for a thought-provoking and engaging conversation.
