Past Present Future

Explore the impact of William Jennings Bryan's 'Cross of Gold' speech in the 1896 American Elections, the influence of silver coinage on American populism, and the clash between oratory and money in campaigning. Learn about campaign coordination, financing, innovative strategies, and the tariff debate during this pivotal election. Delve into the evolution of political stances, anti-imperialist sentiments, and the lasting legacy of populism in American politics.

Exploring the significant 1860 American elections, focusing on Lincoln's victory, the rise of the Republican Party, and the tension leading to civil war. Discussing Lincoln's strategic triumph, the impact of the Kansas-Nebraska Act, and alternate scenarios if Lincoln had lost. Delving into the evolution of political stances and the commitment to union preservation in American history.

Discussing the 1828 American election, Andrew Jackson's populist rise, economic tensions over tariffs, and the Nullification Crisis of 1832. Exploring party politics evolution, anti-Masonic sentiment, and the potential division of the United States.

Exploring the presidential contest of 1800, the creation of the American party system, and the democratic aspects of the election. Delving into the what-ifs if Aaron Burr had won and analyzing the accuracy of Hamilton the musical. Plus, a newsletter offering further insights and content related to the podcast episodes.

Discussing the political lessons of Gulliver's Travels, comparing Trump to Coriolanus, and teasing upcoming episodes on American elections and female authors in the History of Ideas series.

Explore the clash of generations in Turgenev's 'Fathers and Sons', the frustrations of Russian politics in the 1860s, and why Dostoyevsky was infuriated by the novel. Delve into the complex father-son relationships, nihilistic debates, and contrasting characters in Russian literature. Discover themes of ambition, legacy, and nostalgia intertwined with societal issues and familial dynamics in this intriguing podcast.

Mary Queen of Scots, a powerless queen, maintains her hold over the imperious Elizabeth I of England. Explore the impossible decisions faced by these two queens in a male-dominated world. Learn about the intricate dynamics of trust and betrayal, the paradoxical story of Mary Stuart's convictions, and the challenges of unifying under a single monarch. Discover the contrasting lives and paths of Elizabeth and Mary as they navigate power and relationships. Delve into the complex web of themes and characters in Mary Stuart, including a unique production where the roles of Elizabeth and Mary were decided by a coin toss.

Exploring the dual nature of Gulliver's Travels as both an adventure story and a satire of 18th-century politics. Delving into various societies encountered by Gulliver, including communal childhood and incentivized good behavior. Examining themes of bravery, absurdity, and the dangers of fixating on details. Discussing the portrayal of reasoning yahoos in the story and the potential of artificial intelligence in shaping the future.

In this episode, the host explores the political themes and interpretations of Shakespeare's play 'Coriolanus', discussing the conflict between the elite patricians and the plebs, the complexity of the main character, and the contradiction of authenticity. The episode also touches upon the concepts of manipulation and losing touch with one's essence, and announces upcoming podcast episodes on American presidential elections, bad ideas, and freedom.

This week David talks to Richard Whatmore and Lea Ypi about what caused the loss of faith in the idea of Enlightenment at the end of the eighteenth century and the parallels with our loss of faith today. Why did hopes for a better, more rational world start to seem like wishful thinking? How was Britain implicated in the demise of Enlightenment ideals? And what might have happened if there had been no French Revolution?Richard Whatmore’s The End of Enlightenment is available now  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices