Episode 6 of our mini season "The Great Unraveling" is finally here. Over the past five episodes, we've traced how American political discourse became weaponized, how both parties learned to delegitimize elections, how political violence gets selectively remembered, how two incompatible constitutional orders came to govern American life, and how radical ideas captured elite institutions. Today we're exploring something deeper: how politics became America's new religion.

            The German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche declared “God is dead” in 1882, arguing that traditional religious belief was collapsing under the weight of scientific rationalism and modern skepticism. But Nietzsche wasn't celebrating—he was warning. He understood that humans need transcendent meaning and moral frameworks to organize their lives. If traditional faith died, something else would have to replace it.

            That something else, in 21st century America, turned out to be politics. Not politics as a practical method for organizing society and resolving disputes, but politics as a comprehensive belief system that provides meaning, community, moral certainty, and spiritual fulfillment. Americans didn't stop being religious—they just found new gods to worship and new churches to attend.

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Today we talk about the state of the show and what's coming. 

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Just an update about a change or two and where we are headed. 

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Over the past four episodes, we've traced how American political discourse became weaponized, how both parties learned to delegitimize elections, how political violence gets selectively remembered, and how two incompatible constitutional orders came to govern American life simultaneously. Today we're exploring how this transformation happened—not just through laws and court decisions, but through a systematic ideological takeover of American institutions.

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Civil rights vs. civil liberties—what happens when rights collide? Today we discuss. 

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Over the past two episodes, we've traced how American political discourse became weaponized decades before Trump, and how both parties learned to delegitimize elections they don't win. Today we're examining something even more fundamental: how Americans think about political violence.

The story we tell ourselves about political violence in America goes something like this: We're a peaceful democracy where political disagreements are settled through debate and voting, not riots and bloodshed. When violence does occur, it's an aberration—a breakdown of our democratic norms that shocks the conscience and brings the country together in condemnation. This is another fairy tale.

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Today we dive into the election of 2000. This is when both parties learned to delegitimize elections they don't win. 

Want to support the show and gain access to bonus episodes? Follow the link below:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1169162/supporters/new

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We interrupt season 4 to bring you a special mini series (never fear I already have several WWII episodes written and one is already recorded). This series is based on the events of September 10, 2025, and the aftermath of that day. The purpose is to look into how the US got to this point and hopefully find a way for us to get out of it. I hope you all find it informative. 

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This is the American History Podcast, Season 4, Episode 37. I'm your host, Shawn, and welcome to "The Track of Ghosts" - the second of four episodes on the New Guinea Campaign.

Questions: email shawnwarswick@gmail.com 

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Guess who's back? Yep. We have a new WWII episode. I wasn't sure this day would arrive, but it has. In this episode we begin a four part look at one of the forgotten aspects of WWII in the Pacific. 

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Today we have a special treat. Author Samuel Marquis joins the show to discuss his latest book, "Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal." This is a fantastic book, and one I know you'll love. You can purchase it on Amazon or at your local bookseller, including Barnes and Noble. 

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We are getting close to the conclusion of the series.

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Finally we delve into the events of the year 1983. 

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Ronald Reagan

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title says it all. In the 1970s it seemed like the United States was on the decline, but the story wasn't over. 

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We continue with Jimmy Carter and the Cold War. 

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The title sort of says it all. Enjoy

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Welcome back to 1983: The Year the World Almost Ended. In this episode, or miniseries of episodes within the main series, I want to take a look at the Worker’s state, specifically the Soviet Union, but also some of the “workers paradises” that were built in Eastern Europe in the aftermath of World War II. 

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Another bonus episode from our now discontinued Patreon. Enjoy

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This bonus episode covers the Cold War in the 1960s

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Part two of what was a "Patreon only series" on the Cold War. Enjoy

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This is a bonus episode introducing "1983" which was a pattern only show about how the world almost ended in 1983 and none of us really knew it. 

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Today's episode is a bonus one I did for Patreon members WAY back in 2020. I thought it had some relevance to today so here it is. Enjoy. 

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This bonus episode was originally made available way back in 2021 to Patreon members and now it is available for you. Enjoy

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It was January 16, 1991. Your humble host was an undergraduate in college, and like others in the dorms, watching events unfold live on TV. US media had begun broadcasting the start of the air campaign to “free Kuwait” from the clutches of the evil Saddam Hussein. Looking back on these events 3 decades later, I have to admit, it made for compelling, if disgusting, television. Why do I say disgusting? People were dying in front of our very eyes, and we were treating it like it was just some video game. But, at the age of 20, I was enthralled by all of this. And, embarrassingly enough now, I was for it.

But how did the US get to that point? If you learn nothing else from this episode, you should come to realize that American foreign policy, at least when it comes to the Middle east over the last few decades, was characterized by incoherence and confusion. And believe it or not, this bouncing back and forth started with, of all presidents Ronald Reagan. You might find that hard to believe, as even his detractors tend to see him as consistent. Since Reagan, the US has been neither consistent nor has it been guided, when it comes to Iraq and the surrounding area, by shortsighted opportunism. However, he isn’t the only guilty president. Carter, as we shall see, also bears some responsibility for the mess that is American policy in the Middle East.

Before we go forward, let’s discuss what was the purpose of all of this. Guided by opportunism, the purpose of our policy in the Middle East was twofold. First, it was to exercise dominion over the core of the Islamic World. But there was more. It was also about cheap oil and gas. In 1970, the year I was born, it was $.36 (or about $1.70 in 2015 dollars). By 1980 it was $1.18 or 2.95 in 2015 dollars. By today’s standard that doesn’t seem too awful, but in 1980, when you are a somewhat unpopular president, and you are facing reelection? That would not do. In fact, by 1984, in real dollars, the price of gas had decreased from $2.95/gal (in 2015 dollars) to $2.23/gallon. Plus, unemployment in the US, as well as inflation had declined. Inflation was 12.5% in 1980, but by 1983 it was down to less than 4%. Needless to say, the last thing Carter wanted in 1980 was increasing fuel costs.

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Today we have a treat! Author Stuart A. Reid is here to talk about his just released book: "The Lumumba Plot" which is a fantastic Cold War era book .  Just click the title and you can order your copy via Amazon. 

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Finally, we are back into the narrative about WWII. In this episode we continue to look at the war in China. Enjoy!

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Today we have the last episode until September. This book is "Disunion Among Ourselves: The Perilous Politics of the American Revolution." It's the perfect book for this time of year, plus it's quite timely. Check it out here: https://amzn.to/3rasdKB 

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Welcome back to the main narrative. Today we continue our look at China in WWII. 

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Today we have an interview with Dr. Katherine C. Mooney. She is a professor at Florida St. University and the author of the fantastic new book, Isaac Murphy: The Rise and Fall of a Black Jockey. Get your copy of this fantastic new book here. 

Check out the Luxurious bastard and all of the fantastic products he has here (use coupon code American10 for 10% off each and every order!)

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We have a special treat today. Historian Craig Nelson has a new book coming out on May 23. V is for Victory: Franklin Roosevelt's American Revolution and the Triumph of World War II. I think this is a great book for listeners who are fans of WWII (or even if your aren't). I don't agree with everything the author states (his take on FDR's New Deal is one), but overall the book is well written and quite enjoyable.

Follow the link to have your copy delivered via Amazon and help support the show. 

https://amzn.to/3pqwxEL

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Last episode we spent our time looking at the final aspect of Guadalcanal and that was the naval battles that took place in November 1942. It’s been a while since we discussed China, but I don’t want us to forget that aspect of the war, so we will spend several episodes talking about what was the Second Sino Japanese War. Now before I confuse anyone, let me remind you that yes, we did two episode on that conflict this season: episode 5 and 9. However, we left off with December 1941. So what’s been going on since then? I think it’s time we found out!

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Today we wrap up our look at Guadalcanal by discussing the naval battle that took place in and around the waters of that island. Enjoy. 

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Today we delve into the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands and a few other issues as we FINALLY leave the Battle of Guadalcanal. 

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Today we have one more interview (last for a while). This is author Kathy Joseph, author of the book The Lightning Tamers. It's one of my favorite books of the last few years and I think you will love it as well.

Get your copy here. 

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Today we finally get to the worst fighting (or some of the worst) on the 'canal. Enjoy!

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Here is an interview episode with author Debra Yates, the author of "Woman of Many Names" a book about her 7th great grandmother. Enjo

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The last in our series of bonus author interviews features historian Matthew Delmont of Dartmouth. In this episode we discuss his latest book which deals with African Americans and World War II titled Half American: The Epic Story of African Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad. This is another fine work of history and I think it's another book you really should add to your collection. Check it out at the link below.

Half American

This episode is sponsored by the Grey History podcast. Check them out here:
GreyHistory

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Today we have a special treat, an interview with Author Alexander Rose about his just released book, The Lion and the Fox. This is a true story about two spies during the Civil War, and it's one you won't be able to put down. Grab a copy for yourself or the history buff in your life (it is Christmas!) and I assure you, you will thank me later. Follow the link below.

The Lion and the Fox

This episode is sponsored by the Grey History podcast. Check them out here:
GreyHistory

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Today we have a very special bonus episode featuring scholar William Inboden, the author of a fantastic new book on Ronald Reagan and his foreign policy. There has not been a comprehensive survey (believe it or not) of this subject until now. This fantastic new book is available now, so after you hear the interview, click on the link below. This book is not to be missed!

The Peacemaker

This episode is sponsored by the Grey History podcast. Check them out here:
GreyHistory

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Today we get into some fierce fighting on the 'canal. The Marines will have their hands full trying to hold on to their gains. 

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It's my birthday week so you all get a special bonus episode. It's been 10 months since we last had Horton on the show, and a LOT has happened in that time. Just an FYI: I don't listen to many podcasts these days. Mainly because I don't want to be influenced by anyone, but, I ALWAYS listen to Horton. So here ya go. Enjoy.

Get Scott Horton's book on the "War on Terrorism" here:
https://amzn.to/3DfPfDK

Or his book on the war in Afghanistan here:
https://amzn.to/3sdLGHO

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Today we continue our deep dive into the Guadalcanal campaign. This promises to be a long "series" within the overall series, possibly as long as 6-8 episodes by the time we finish our discussion. Enjoy. 

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Today we get even more into the weeds of the Guadalcanal campaign. This time the action is focused on the fight at sea, and the USS Enterprise is in the thick of it. This famous ship takes a beating, and the question is, will she survive? Listen to find out. 

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Today we being a multi part look at the Guadalcanal campaign. There is a lot to it, hopefully I can keep it interesting without making it too complicated. 

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It is summer, 1942. Midway was a disaster for the Japanese, but the war is far from over. The Americans, at the insistence of Admiral King, have decided to challenge the Japanese in the Solomons.

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Perhaps the most important battle of the early war, Midway was the make it or break it point for the U.S. Navy. The Japanese were determined to put the pressure on Nimitz, and the admiral himself rolled the dice. Would the Americans stop the Japanese? Well, here is that story. Enjoy.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Today we move the narrative forward and find the U.S. Navy determined to hit the Japanese in the south Pacific, hopefully to stop their advance in the region. Failure to do so could mean the Japanese will threaten the shipping lanes to Australia. This battle is historic in that the two fleets, for the first time, will not actually see each other.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Today we present the last of our "author interviews" for the year. William Taylor was a Marine who served in Vietnam for 13 months, earning 3 Purple Hearts and 2 Presidential Unit citations in the process. His book about the experience is a well written one which will take you into the thick of the action. It was a pleasure to interview Bill and read his book. I know you will enjoy it just as much as I did.

Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3QaS5NP

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Since it's been a while, I'm releasing this WWII episode a few days early. Today we get back to the main narrative and discuss events in spring 1942 which led up to the Battle of the Coral Sea. Enjoy!

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Today we are joined by Dr. Patrick Newman of the Mises Institute and Florida Southern College to discuss his latest book, Cronyism: Liberty vs. Power in America, 1607-1849. This fascinating book is a fast read and one I know you will enjoy. Get your copy here: Cronyism.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today I'm talking to Peter Shae, the author of the fantastic book In the Arena.  profiles 34 American leaders who captured their party’s nomination for the presidency but never reached the Oval Office. Author Peter Shea chronicles the rise, early careers, campaigns, and later achievements of historical giants like Aaron Burr through modern candidates like Hillary Clinton. His essays are complemented by photos of monuments and memorabilia by photographer Tom Maday. This book will be a great addition to your history book collection. Get your copy here. 

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Today we have a special treat. Author Eric Dolan joins the show to discuss his recently released book, Rebels at Sea: Privateering in the American Revolution. This is a book I think you will love, especially as it covers a very little known portion of the war. You can get yourself a copy of this fantastic book here.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we have another one of our on going author interview episodes. Historian Neil Lanctot joins the show to discuss his book, The Approaching Storm: Roosevelt, Wilson, Addams, and Their Clash Over America's Future. This is a fascinating look at three of the major figures from the Progressive Era. Get yourself a copy by following this link. I know you will love this book.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

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Today we have a fantastic interview with historian Deborah Cohen about her new book "Last Call at the Hotel Imperial: The Reporters Who Took on a World at War."  Dr. Cohen is Richard W. Leopold Professor of History and Department Chair (2020-2023) at Northwestern University, specializing in the history of modern Britain and Europe. You can obtain a copy of this exemplary new book here: https://amzn.to/3tI1inR. 

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Last time we finally delved into the Southwest Pacific Theater, taking at look at the Philippines and General Douglas MacArthur. It is once again early 1942, but this time we focus more on the British in Malay and Singapore.

This episode is sponsored by Smile Brilliant's Dental Probiotics. For a limited time use AMERICAN for 20% OFF Smile Brilliants Dental Probiotics and their suite of dentist-grade oral care products.  Check it out at:  https://www.smilebrilliant.com/product/dental-probiotics-adults/

Today's show is sponsored by "World War II on Topic" from the National WWII History Museum. Highlighting some of the Museum's best content, World War II On Topic airs weekly and allows you to experience a curated selection of WWII topics in an easily digestible format. Check out this amazing podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where ever you listen to podcasts.

This episode is sponsored by our official VPN, Surfshark VPN. Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/AMERICANHISTORY - Enter promo code AMERICANHISTORY for 83% off and 3 extra months free!

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Today’s show is going to see us backtrack a tad. We haven’t really discussed the Philippines and General MacArthur’s area of responsibility, so it’s time to make that correction to the narrative. 

First, we will look at the Philippines and General Douglas MacArthur. You might be surprised to learn he wasn’t all that popular with his men in early 1942 and we will discuss the reason why. Then, in the next episode, we will move on and discuss the British in Southeast Asia, specifically Singapore and Malaya.

This episode is sponsored by Smile Brilliant's Dental Probiotics. For a limited time use AMERICAN for 20% OFF Smile Brilliants Dental Probiotics and their suite of dentist-grade oral care products.  Check it out at:  https://www.smilebrilliant.com/product/dental-probiotics-adults/

This episode is sponsored by our official VPN, Surfshark VPN. Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/AMERICANHISTORY - Enter promo code AMERICANHISTORY for 83% off and 3 extra months free!

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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            Episode 4.18 looks at a gentleman named Henry Kaiser and how he came to be an important figure in this story. He was the man who owned the Richmond Shipyards, famous for producing Liberty Boats in WWII.

This episode is sponsored by Smile Brilliant's Dental Probiotics. For a limited time use AMERICAN for 20% OFF Smile Brilliants Dental Probiotics and their suite of dentist-grade oral care products.  Check it out at:  https://www.smilebrilliant.com/product/dental-probiotics-adults/

This episode is sponsored by our official VPN, Surfshark VPN. Get Surfshark VPN at https://surfshark.deals/AMERICANHISTORY - Enter promo code AMERICANHISTORY for 83% off and 3 extra months free!

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In this episode we bust a few myths and talk about the ramping up of the war effort. As you probably know, American industry switched over from consumer goods to producing war material. It is pretty remarkable what they were able to do and how quickly they did it.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15


Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we talk about the U.S. Navy and their desire to hit back at the Japanese in the early weeks of 1942.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15


Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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In this special, bonus episode, I discuss the history of the relationship between the United States and Russia. We focus on the deterioration, starting with the idea that the US betrayed a promise to Gorbachev and the Soviets. Was a promise made? We look at the documentary evidence.

From there we move on and look at the expansion of NATO and it's effect on how Russia views the US and it's military alliance. There is a lot here, so enjoy.

Some important links:
https://original.antiwar.com/ted_snider/2022/08/22/what-did-the-west-promise-russia-on-nato-expansion/

https://nsarchive.gwu.edu/briefing-book/russia-programs/2017-12-12/nato-expansion-what-gorbachev-heard-western-leaders-early

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/monkey-cage/wp/2014/02/12/who-are-the-protesters-in-ukraine/

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Today's show is sponsored by Unidragon Wooden puzzles. These awesome and unique puzzles make great gifts. Use coupon code history10 at checkout to receive 10% off on your order. Check out their amazing puzzles here:  Unidragon Puzzles.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15


Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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I'm very excited to release this episode to the world. Originally it was supposed to focus on the men who eventually were promoted to 5 star admiral during the war. However, as I started writing it changed and thus so did the focus. Instead I decided to focus on one of the men, Fleet Admiral King, someone the average American is probably not familiar with. So enjoy!

Today's show is sponsored by Unidragon Wooden puzzles. These awesome and unique puzzles make great gifts. Use coupon code history10 at checkout to receive 10% off on your order. Check out their amazing puzzles here:  Unidragon Puzzles.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15


Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we take a look at the immediate aftermath of the attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor.

Remember, the official beard products company of the show is Fable Beard Company. They have amazing products for great prices. Get a 15% discount on ALL orders when you use coupon code: Shawn15 at check out. You can also follow the link below:
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I recorded this episode with Scott Horton just a few days ago. We delve deep into Afghanistan and all sort of foreign policy issues. Enjoy!

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Remember, the official beard products company of the show is Fable Beard Company. They have amazing products for great prices. Get a 15% discount on ALL orders when you use coupon code: Shawn15 at check out. You can also follow the link below:
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

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This is part of the episode I recorded for the Patreon only series "1983: The Year the World Almost Ended." It was orginally about 50 minutes long, but for public consumption I cut it down to far shorter. I hope you all enjoy this look at the Cold War in the 1960s.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Remember, the official beard products company of the show is Fable Beard Company. They have amazing products for great prices. Get a 15% discount on ALL orders when you use coupon code: Shawn15 at check out. You can also follow the link below:
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

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On this, the 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, we discuss the lead up to the Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy at Pearl.

This episode is sponsored by Smile Brilliant. Looking to whiten your teeth for far less than what you will be charged at the dentist? Smile Brilliant has an amazing Cyber Monday sale that lasts until Christmas 2021. Head over to www.smilebrilliant.com and take advantage of some amazing offers. You can also use coupon code "American" to enjoy a very nice discount for our listeners.


Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

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Finally we get to the end of our contextualizing episodes! I know, it's been a bit of a long road. This episode features a look at Europe. I know the season is about the Pacific, but we really need to at least address Europe so that's what we do here.

This episode is sponsored by Smile Brilliant. Looking to whiten your teeth for far less than what you will be charged at the dentist? Smile Brilliant has an amazing Cyber Monday sale that lasts until Christmas 2021. Head over to www.smilebrilliant.com and take advantage of some amazing offers. You can also use coupon code "American" to enjoy a very nice discount for our listeners.

This episode is sponsored by Beacon, the Navigation sharing app that allows you to share your ETA and arrival with one or more people while keeping your location private. Ever had to answer the question “When are you going to be home?” Only to say, “Uh… soon!” I know I have. And this app will help you answer that question in a way that is far better. Go to their website to make your traveling easier.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we continue discussing the road to war for the United States.

This episode is sponsored by Politics and War. Politics & War is a free to play browser based persistent massively multi-player online game where you create your own nation and rule it. Check it out at www.politicsandwar.com 

This episode is sponsored by Beacon, the Navigation sharing app that allows you to share your ETA and arrival with one or more people while keeping your location private. Ever had to answer the question “When are you going to be home?” Only to say, “Uh… soon!” I know I have. And this app will help you answer that question in a way that is far better. Go to their website to make your traveling easier.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we finally start delving into the context to WWII from the American point of view. It's been a long road getting here, but finally we can put the American history back into the podcast.

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Today we look jump back into the Second Sino-Japanese War as we wrap up our exploration of events in Asia and prepare to look at the US in the years leading up to Pearl Harbor.

Huge thanks to King of the World for sponsoring this episode. Check out this amazing 7 part podcast series at:  King of the World Podcast.

Today's show is sponsored by Unidragon Wooden puzzles. These awesome and unique puzzles make great gifts. Use coupon code history10 at checkout to receive 10% off on your order. Check out their amazing puzzles here:  Unidragon Puzzles.

This episode is sponsored by Politics and War, the online political strategy game where you get to create your own country and compete with thousands of other players diplomatically, militarily, and economically. Politics and War is free to play with limited microtransactions to ensure that the game is fair and not pay-to-win. Play for free in your browser at politicsandwar.com or download the Politics and War app on the App Store or Google Play Store.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today's episode is the last of our two which take a look at the early years of the Chinese Republic and focus on the rise of Chiang and Mao's rise in the communist party.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Today's show is sponsored by Unidragon Wooden puzzles. These awesome and unique puzzles make great gifts. Use coupon code history10 at checkout to receive 10% off on your order. Check out their amazing puzzles here:  Unidragon Puzzles.
Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we discuss two of the most important figures in the 20th century: Chiang Kai-she and Mao Tse-dong. This is patron of two fairly long episodes discussing these two pivotal figures.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Remember, the official beard products company of the show is Fable Beard Company. They have amazing products for great prices. Get a 15% discount on ALL orders when you use coupon code: Shawn15 at check out. You can also follow the link below:
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we begin a 3 episode look at China in the early 20th century. The second two episodes of this 3 set miniseries within season 4 will look at Chiang Kai-shek and Mao Tse-dong. 

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Today we begin a series of episodes on the Sino Japanese War and early 20th Century Chinese history. 

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Today we will take a look at the rise of "militant" Japan. Obviously this is quite important to the story as we go forward. 

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Today we take a short walk through Japanese history in the early 20th Century. This is a fascinating time period as it is somewhat contradictory. Slowly but surely an authoritarian state is being created, but for a moment there is a bit of liberalism. Sadly that will be crushed in the 1920s as Japan puts itself on a path toward imperialism and conquest in Asia.


Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we travel back into the 19th century to look at the "Meiji Restoration." This is essentially the beginning of "modern Japan" and is quite important for us if we are to understand the Japanese in the years leading to World War II.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Finally, the day has arrived! We are now into "Season 4: WWII in the Pacific." I hope you all are as excited about this as I am.

Season 4 will be the most ambitious one yet. There is a lot of history goodness to explore when it comes to WWII, and I think you all will love it. Or I hope you do. First we will start off looking at Japan and China, then move into the US and the lead up to Pearl Harbor. It will be evident why I'm taking this approach fairly quickly, as I see the war in the Pacific starting with the outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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The fourth, and final, bonus episode of July to celebrate our 4th Anniversary. I interview author Scott Horton, the libertarian foreign policy expert and author of the book "Enough Already: Time to End the War on Terrorism." You can find Scott's work at antiwar.com and libertarianinstitute.org

Purchase the book here: Enough Already. 

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Amazingly we have hit the fourth anniversary. Back in 2017 I wasn't sure if I'd still be doing this in 2021. Heck, in April 2020 I wasn't sure any of us would still be around. LOL

But here we are. Four years and almost 100 episodes later, the show is continuing to grow. This episode features an interview with me. This time I am the one being interviewed. The interviewer is a former student, George. He was a member of the class of 2012 and is a graduate of the University of Texas.

Instead of the usual Monday release, I'm releasing it a tad bit early.  I hope you enjoy this long bonus episode.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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This might be the start of a new tradition: a special bonus episode on the 4th of July. This first ever July 4 bonus is on, of course, the Declaration of Independence. I hope you enjoy it!

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This is a discussion I recently had with Samantha Skory, a former student of mine who is now a college graduate and specializes in the Cold War. I have a feeling Sam is going to become a semi-regular guest on the show. I should say we are mostly talking about a book by former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Michael McFall, but we are really all over the place here. Kind of a potpourri episode. Enjoy!

Huge thanks to our friends at Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Shoutout to our newest sponsor: Bedtime History. Bedtime history is a podcast designed specifically for children. It presents short bite sized history stories that are enjoyable for both children and adults. Check them out here:
http://bedtimehistorystories.com

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Thank you very much to Wooga's new podcast June's Journey for sponsoring the show. I love this podcast and I know you will to. Check them out on iTunes and wherever you listen to podcasts.
June's Journey


Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we discuss the end of the New Deal and its' critics in the 1930s. Yes, there were (and still are) critics of FDR's policies.

Huge thanks to Podcorn for sponsoring this episode. Explore sponsorship opportunities and start monetizing your podcast by signing up here: https://podcorn.com/podcasters/

Thank you very much to Wooga's new podcast June's Journey for sponsoring the show. I love this podcast and I know you will to. Check them out on iTunes and wherever you listen to podcasts.
June's Journey


Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we look at FDR's New Deal. It's been a long time coming, and this episode is quite large, but we think it is worth it. Enjoy!

This episode is sponsored by Wooga's new podcast June's Journey. Check it out at:
June's Journey

Remember, the official beard products company of the show is Fable Beard Company. They have amazing products for great prices. Get a 15% discount on ALL orders when you use coupon code: Shawn15 at check out. You can also follow the link below:
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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Today we have a super long episode detailing FDR and his life before he became president. FDR was the most important president of the 20th century, whether or not you like him and his policies. Thus this is one of our largest episodes (if not the largest one) yet.


This episode is sponsored by Nordpass. If you are tired of remembering passwords, Nordpass is just what you are looking for. Get 50% off your order when you follow the link: https://nordpass.com/shawn or use code Shawn at checkout.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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In this fairly long episode we discuss the various possible causes and I settle on one in particular that best explains what happened. The basis for our argument is the book by the late great Murray N. Rothbard America's Great Depression.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we start talking about Hoover and the Great Depression. There is a lot of myth surrounding Hoover AND FDR. We will bust the myth that Hoover was a "do nothing" "free market" kind of leader. Instead today you discover that the blue print for the New Deal was actually the programs Hoover did try and implement, but to no avail.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Our old friend Jerry from the Presidencies podcast makes his return. This time we discuss Calvin Coolidge and Amity Shlaes biography about him, Coolidge.

Check out Jerry's podcast at:

http://presidencies.blubrry.com

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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We get a bit closer to the Great Depression as today we discuss the Depression of 1920 and the Presidency of Warren G. Harding.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
Fable Beard Company CBD 

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A continuation of our look at American society in the 1920s.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we discuss American Society in the 1920s. This is part one of a multi part mini series within season 3. Enjoy.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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This special cross over episode is with the host of the On Germany podcast, Jacob Collier. In it we take all things Germany and the US in the lead up to WWI and briefly talk about the aftermath of that conflict. Enjoy!

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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In this episode we go into the Paris Peace Conference and say goodbye to the presidency of Woodrow Wilson.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
https://fablebeardco.com/discount/SHAWN15

Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today we finish our discussion of the United States in WWI.

Fable Beard Company is the official beard products company of the American history podcast. For great oils, beard balms and butters as well as beard wash and conditioner check out the link below. Use the coupon code: Shawn15 at checkout so you can receive 15% off all orders.
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Fable also has AMAZING CBD products, including CBD tinctures, beard butter, beard oil, beard balm and even beard conditioner/wash. You can get them with a 15% discount by following the link down below (or using Shawn15 at checkout!).
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Today is part one of a two part set on the United States in World War I. 

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Today we finish our discussion of the so-called "Imperial Moment." 

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Today is part 3 of our discussion on the "Imperial Moment." Please note: I made a mistake in the recording and said the song "Hey Frisco!" was by Oliver Kline. It's actually by Olive Kline. Sorry for the mistake. 

The artwork for this episode is a cartoon published in the late 19th century by Puck Magazine depicting Uncle Sam instructing his new colonial subjects. 

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Today we continue the discussion of American Imperialism. 

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Today we start a mini-series within season 3 discussing American imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th century. 

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Today we wrap up our look at the "progressive" movement. Although, in truth, we will continue to look at progressives throughout the season. 

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Today we discuss the presidency of William Howard Taft and quickly look at Woodrow Wilson. 

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Today we discuss the Presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. 

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Today we continue our discussion of the Progressives. 

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Today is a special day and a special treat. We are celebrating our 3rd anniversary! To celebrate it properly, we are discussing FDR's 3rd term with Jerry Landry from the Presidencies Podcast. If you haven't listened to his show, what are you waiting for? Get over there and check it out (after you listen to this episode of course!). 

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Today we finally begin discussing the actual Progressives. 

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We transition into the second half of the war and set up the Battle of Buena Vista.

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Hello, and welcome to the American history podcast episode 8: Bonus Episode, The Vietnam War. First, let me apologize for having been gone for about two months. If you are a regular listener at this time (it is 2017) you know I’ve not released an episode since early October. There are two major reasons for my absence. First, I changed schools and, indeed, moved to a school in an entirely different school district. This change was a long time in coming. I’d been unhappy with the leadership at my previous school for at least a year. While a year isn’t all that long, the amount of change was just too much, and I felt it was time to get out. Lucky for me, I have friends in other districts all over the city and a couple of them really helped me out.The second reason I’ve been gone for two months is that my oldest dog, Chuck, passed away in early November after a 10-day illness. He was 13.5 and the light of our lives. I had planned on recording an episode on October 31st and releasing it the next day, but that was when Chuck was ill so I was unable to do so. He then passed away on November 7 and I was a mess, so recording was out of the question. So hopefully we can now get back on track. On with the show! 

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Today we discuss the road to the revolution. 

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The Southern colonies are our topic for today. 

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Continuing our look at the "new world" we delve into British North America

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Continuing our discussion on European empires in the new world. 

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Season 1, episode 2. In this episode we discuss European empires in the new world. 

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