Nerding Out on Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis
In case you didn't know, Rick is a history buff, especially when it comes to American presidents. In this episode Rick sits down with acclaimed historian and biographer Nigel Hamilton to discuss his upcoming book, Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents. Together, they explore the contrasting leadership styles of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis during the American Civil War, examining how each president’s psychology, military background, and decisions shaped the course of the conflict. Hamilton dives into Lincoln's struggles with his generals, the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation, and Davis’s strategic mindset. The conversation offers a deeper understanding of two pivotal figures in American history.
Nigel's book, Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents, available for pre-order now.
Robert McElvaine: "Forty years ago, I wrote an essay for the New York Times about how the Democrats needed to take back the symbols of America that the Republicans had seized. We didn’t succeed then, but that’s just what is happening now."
America is infected with a fascist streak that imperils our way of life. In today's episode Rick is joined by Jason Stanley, author of How Fascism Works and the upcoming book Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future. They delve into the troubling rise of authoritarianism in the United States, discussing how revisionist history and the manipulation of education are being used to consolidate power. The conversation explores the dangers of erasing marginalized perspectives, the role of tech and media in spreading disinformation, and the ongoing struggle to preserve democratic values in the face of rising fascist tendencies.
The conversation between Rick Wilson and Nicholas Kristof covers a wide range of topics, including the state of American politics, social justice, democracy, rural-urban divide, and the role of media. They also discuss the challenges faced by rural communities, the impact of disinformation, and the need for a more nuanced and practical approach to governance. The conversation delves into the economic and social issues affecting different parts of the country, as well as the need for a more inclusive and solution-oriented approach to address these challenges.
Francis Barry discusses his book "Backroads and Better Angels: A Journey into the Heart of American Democracy" and his cross-country road trip to explore the values that hold America together. He shares stories of meeting people from different backgrounds and political beliefs, highlighting the frustration and division that exists in the country. Despite the challenges, Barry finds hope in the resilience and faith in the country's values that he encounters along the way. He emphasizes the importance of listening, open-mindedness, and prioritizing relationships over politics in order to bridge the divides in America.
Follow Francis Barry at @FSBarry on X, read more of his writing at Bloomberg.com, and purchase his new book, "Back Roads and Better Angels: A Journey Into the Heart of American Democracy" at fine bookstores everywhere.