American Prestige

Aileen Teague, a historian specializing in drug history and Latin American politics, joins the hosts to discuss the U.S. focus on the War on Drugs in Latin America. She critiques the misleading 'narco-terror' rhetoric, explaining how it has fueled cartel violence and mobilized military responses. Aileen warns about the destabilization risks in Venezuela and the implications of U.S. interventions. The conversation also uncovers the geopolitical motives behind U.S. interests in oil, migration, and isolating Cuba.

Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author, dives into the fascinating history of Christmas. She explores the origins of the holiday, tracing its practices through early Christian societies and medieval celebrations. Topics include the mysterious dating of Christmas, the role of mummers' plays, and gift-giving traditions like those of St. Nicholas. Janega highlights how pagan customs influenced medieval festivities and discusses the evolution of holiday symbols, ultimately reflecting on how Christmas has transformed into a modern consumer celebration.

Join writers Justin Boyd and VJ Boyd as they dive into the magic of The Muppet Christmas Carol. They explore Charles Dickens as a pivotal literary figure and discuss the film's melancholy spirit post-Henson. Highlights include Michael Caine's powerful performance and critiques of anti-capitalist themes. The hosts also reflect on how the film's ghostly puppets deliver both horror and emotion, along with childhood memories of its lasting impact. Discover why this rendition remains beloved in holiday cinema!

Andre Pagliarini, an assistant professor and author specializing in Brazilian labor history, dives deep into the life and political journey of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He discusses Lula's rise through union activism, the emergence of new unionism, and the founding of the Workers' Party during Brazil's waning dictatorship. The conversation touches on Lula's social programs, the challenges of coalition governance, and the impact of corruption scandals. Pagliarini also analyzes Lula's recent return to power, highlighting the complexities of left governance in a changing political landscape.

Vincent Bevins dives into the complexity behind recent protests, challenging the common 'Gen Z' narrative. He critiques how labels oversimplify diverse dynamics and explains why material grievances often drive outrage. The discussion touches on the lessons learned from 2010s protests, highlighting a crisis of representation that fuels 'explosive mobilization.' They explore how tactical similarities don’t guarantee aligned outcomes, suggesting that opportunistic actors significantly influence post-protest scenarios.

Tensions flare as fighting resumes between Thailand and Cambodia, despite claims of a ceasefire. An Israeli airstrike in Gaza raises concerns over the fragile ceasefire, compounded by a devastating winter storm affecting displaced populations. Meanwhile, Yemen's Southern Transitional Council is poised to declare a new government amid regional threats. The U.S. gears up for its largest arms sale to Taiwan, while escalating military pressure on Venezuela is discussed. Notably, Chile elects a far-right president, signaling shifts in regional politics.

Derek interviews Annelle Sheline, a research fellow at the Quincy Institute and expert on Gulf and Middle East affairs. They explore the Southern Transitional Council's recent territorial gains in Yemen and their impact on a fractured political landscape. Annelle discusses the historical roots of southern secessionism, the inefficacy of the Presidential Leadership Council, and the Emirati backing of STC forces. The conversation also covers the potential for long-term division between North and South Yemen and the strategic importance of the region's oil-rich provinces.

Join Van Jackson, a foreign policy commentator, and Julia Gledhill, a national security researcher, as they dissect the Trump administration’s National Security Strategy. They highlight the document's shift towards a civilizational narrative and its implications for U.S. diplomacy, notably the neglect of democratic values. Jackson critiques its mixed signals on China while Gledhill exposes contradictions between rhetorical goals and military strategies, raising concerns about an imperial tone and increased military presence in Latin America.

Joseph Scales, an independent scholar of ancient Judaism, dives deep into the intriguing history of the Maccabees and their revolt against the Seleucid Empire. He explores the clash between Hellenism and local traditions, revealing the complex political landscape of ancient Judea. Scales covers the Maccabean guerilla tactics, the establishment of Hasmonean sovereignty, and their eventual transformation from rebels to rulers. Listeners will gain insights into the rich tapestry of identity and power dynamics that shaped Hanukkah's legacy.

Rashid Khalidi, a prominent historian specializing in Palestinian history, joins the discussion on Gaza's dire situation post-ceasefire. He highlights the continuing Israeli assaults and the severe lack of shelter and medical care as winter approaches. Khalidi critiques the notion of a ceasefire, describing it as one-sided, and reveals plans for an international mandate, noting anticipated Palestinian resistance. He further explores the disconnection between commercial supplies and humanitarian needs, calling the situation a form of collective punishment.