Breaking History

Join historian Abbas Milani, director of Iranian studies at Stanford, as he dives into the pivotal moments leading to Iran's 1979 revolution. He explores Ayatollah Khomeini's evolution from exile in France to revolutionary leader, examining the complex Red-Green Alliance between Islamists and leftists. Milani also discusses Khomeini's use of media, the West's romanticization of him, and the immediate consequences of his rise, including the clampdown on rights and the export of revolution across the Middle East.

Abbas Amanat, a historian specializing in modern Iranian history, and Ray Takei, a foreign policy analyst, delve into Iran's complex political landscape. They discuss the Constitutional Revolution of 1905-1907, exploring its promise and the subsequent trend of autocratic rule. The conversation highlights how foreign intervention shaped political outcomes, leading to the rise of Reza Khan and the consequential 1953 coup. The duo examines the paradox of reforms repeatedly empowering strongmen, revealing a fascinating cycle of revolution and repression in Iran.

Pamela Nadell, a historian of American Judaism and professor at American University, dives into the challenges Jews faced in 1930s America amid rising antisemitism. She discusses the precarious balance between community safety and government inaction, highlighting how Jewish gangsters like Meyer Lansky took aggressive stances against Nazi sympathizers. The conversation also touches on modern parallels, community defense initiatives, and the critical importance of standing up against intimidation, drawing lessons from history for today's Jewish communities.

David Lehman, a renowned poet and author of 'A Fine Romance,' dives into the surprising history of Jewish songwriters behind America's beloved Christmas tunes. They explore how immigrants like Sammy Cahn and Irving Berlin shaped the holiday's soundtrack, noting the cultural influences that fostered their creativity. The conversation highlights the inclusive nature of Christmas music, framing it as a uniquely American tradition. Listeners will discover the poignant stories behind iconic songs and the rich tapestry of musical influence that defined the holiday spirit.

The discussion dives into the scandalous 1990s, where political accountability took a nosedive. It explores how scandals involving Clinton and Trump laid the groundwork for the Epstein crisis. Feminists and evangelicals alike are shown to have made questionable compromises for political gain, fostering a culture of impunity. The podcast also highlights the impact of the MeToo movement and the unsettling normalization of elite misconduct, culminating in a populist backlash against the privileged class.

Explore the rebellious spirit of punk as it marks its 50th anniversary, defying rock norms by returning to raw authenticity. Discover how the genre emerged from societal disillusionment and political unrest. The conversation draws intriguing parallels between legendary punk figures and Socrates, highlighting his relentless questioning of authority. Delve into the darker side of punk culture, the moral panic it incited, and its legacy of challenging conformity, ultimately revealing the powerful interplay between questioning and cultural renewal.

Zohran Mamdani, a rising Democratic socialist and New York mayoral candidate known for his bold campaign, joins reporter Olivia Reingold, who covered his journey. They discuss how Mamdani's potential victory breaks a long history of socialist defeat in America. The conversation dives into his platform, including free buses and housing, as well as controversies surrounding his rhetoric on Gaza. Mamdani also shares his motivations for joining the Democratic Socialists of America, revealing the evolving dynamics within the movement.

The brutal murder of community leader Samantha Woll raises troubling questions about justice, race, and antisemitism in America. While police initially dismiss it as a hate crime, the investigation becomes convoluted, leading to unrelated suspects. Host Frannie Block uncovers bizarre twists and turns in this haunting case through exclusive interviews with family, lawyers, and authorities, painting a complex picture of Samantha's life and the impact of her tragic death.

Paul Coleman is a British lawyer advocating for online speech rights, while Lord Toby Young leads the Free Speech Union. They delve into how the U.K. has shifted from a bastion of free expression to a land where tweets get users arrested. Topics include the impact of policing priorities on hate speech, administrative censorship in universities, and the historical roots of free speech in Britain. They caution that suppressing dissent threatens truth and democracy, but express cautious optimism for potential reforms in the future.

James Comey's story reveals the complexities of his role as both hero and villain in America's political drama. The discussion dives into the ramifications of his indictment, prompting questions on justice versus political theater. Listeners explore how Comey's childhood and career decisions shaped his controversial tenure. Key events, like the Clinton email probe and the infamous Flynn interview, are examined to highlight the blurred lines between FBI independence and political motivations. The conversation serves as a cautionary tale about accountability and revenge in the current political landscape.