America: The Story of the USA – Details, episodes & analysis

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America: The Story of the USA

Liam Heffernan | A Mercury Podcast

History

News

Society & Culture

Frequency: 1 episode/5d. Total Eps: 219

Blending US history, American politics, and news, America: The Story of the USA is your ultimate guide to the United States of America, in partnership with the British Association for American Studies. With the world's biggest experts and brightest minds, we unpack the big moments, bold ideas, and cultural shifts that define the nation. Whether you’re in the US, the UK, or anywhere with an interest in US news, this podcast brings clarity and context to the American experience. We connect the dots in American history, from the Founding Fathers to Donald Trump, breaking down how the past informs the present — and why it matters. . AD FREE & BONUS CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa . GET THE NEWSLETTER: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ BRANDS & ADVERTISING: liam@mercurypodcasts.com . America: A History is a part of the Mercury Podcast Network, hosted by your resident US expert Liam Heffernan, in partnership with The British Association for American Studies: baas.ac.uk

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🇬🇧 Great Britain - history
14/04/2026
#91
🇬🇧 Great Britain - history
13/04/2026
#85

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https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/20pdf/19-1257_g204.pdf
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Score global : 69%

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Study Notes: The Presidents - John Adams (1797 - 1801)

Friday, April 10, 2026 • Duration 11:26

America: Study Notes are quickfire explainers for all the things you want to know about the USA, but don't want to ask. Today: and continuing our Presidents series, is the second President of the United States, John Adams - his election, presidency, key achievements and legacy. . Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In the Making: The Day A Whole Civilization Nearly Died

Thursday, April 9, 2026 • Duration 59:18

This week, we discuss one of the wildest couple of day in modern politics, atter Trump's threat to wipe out a whole civilization sparked global panic, and an 11th hour ceasefire deal was announced with Iran. But who wins from this? Has Trump's reputation been damaged beyond repair? And is it time to start worrying about a nuclear war? Plus, reaction to Pam Bondi's firing, and the latest from NASA's record breaking mission to the moon. The guest today is Dr. Tim Galsworthy, lecturer in History and Military History at Lincoln Bishop University. . Stories Mentioned: Pam Bondi fired: https://news.sky.com/story/trump-latest-us-president-fires-attorney-general-pam-bondi-13526493 Artemis II breaks records: https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasas-artemis-ii-crew-eclipses-record-for-farthest-human-spaceflight/ Trump agrees Iran ceasefire: https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-04-07-2026 Trump’s Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump . America: The Story of the USA is a Podcasts by Liam production for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mercury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, in partnership with the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠British Association for American Studies⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/americathestoryoftheusa Get in touch: america@podcastsbyliam.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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In the Making: Trump vs NATO and the Rise of Markwayne Mullin

Thursday, March 19, 2026 • Duration 01:22:10

This week, after another chaotic week in US politics and global affairs, we look at the latest developments in Donald Trump’s escalating war in Iran, his claim that the US “no longer needs NATO,” and the growing international backlash as the conflict spirals beyond Washington’s control. We discuss the political and economic consequences of Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the resignation of America’s counterterrorism chief, and the domestic fallout as fuel prices surge. Domestically, extreme weather sweeps across the US - heatwaves in the west and snowstorms in the east - and how climate change, government shutdowns, and TSA staffing crises have collided to create nationwide travel chaos. And today we expect the confirmation of Markwayne Mullin as the new Secretary of Homeland Security, so we explore what his appointment reveals about Trump’s governing style, loyalty politics, and the future of immigration enforcement. Plus, we speak with Tom Joseph, founder and treasurer of America's Main Street Party, that promises to reform the electoral process and take the money out of politics. . Stories Mentioned: Trump stands firm as Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues: https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cx2lr40g17kt?page=8 Severe weather sweeps the US: https://apnews.com/article/travel-weather-storms-flights-airports-f485f93852f31ab2fbd0513a117c7e20 Markwayne Mullin confirmed as new DHS secretary: https://blog.ucs.org/shana-udvardy/if-confirmed-will-senator-markwayne-mullin-will-be-dhss-next-disaster/ America's Main Street Party: mainstreetparty.org . America: The Story of the USA is a Podcasts by Liam production for ⁠⁠⁠Mercury⁠⁠⁠, in partnership with the ⁠⁠⁠British Association for American Studies⁠⁠⁠. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/americathestoryoftheusa Get in touch: america@podcastsbyliam.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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The Future of America: A History Podcast

Thursday, May 8, 2025 • Duration 08:25

As we all adjust to a rapidly changing America, and the impact this is having around the world, we've taken some time out from the podcast to reflect on exactly what we're doing, and how we can continue to do it appropriately and effectively. We know that at the moment, it's as important to look to the future as it is to understand the past. So our podcast needs to keep up with that, drive important conversations, and continue to provide value to you, our listener. What that looks like is different now to when we launched this in 2023. But we promise: we will be back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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BONUS: Pushback Against Trump's Anti-Immigrant Agenda

Saturday, April 19, 2025 • Duration 21:19

In this bonus episode, I'm joined again by Will McCorkle from the College of Charleston, following our recording of 'How Has Immigration Shaped American Idenitty?' We had such a blast in our previous episode, but there’s just so much more to unpack! We’re taking a closer look at Trump’s ever-elusive border wall and whether it’s ever going to be a reality or just a big ol’ distraction. Spoiler alert: it’s a bit of both! Plus, we dig into the wild world of birthright citizenship and what it actually means, because let’s face it, some folks don’t quite get it. Trust me, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and maybe a few "Did they really just say that?" moments, so buckle up. ... Special guest for this episode: Will McCorkle, an assistant professor of educational foundations and social studies education at the College of Charleston. His research focuses on the intersection of nationalism, immigration, and education with a particular focus on more marginalized migrant communities. ... Highlights from this episode: The podcast dives deep into how immigration has shaped American identity, a topic that is both timely and critical. We discuss the infamous Trump wall, comparing its reality to Biden's border policies, and how both are more symbolic than effective. Birthright citizenship is examined, revealing the complexities of the 14th Amendment amidst current political pressures to revoke it. The conversation touches on the importance of public pushback against extreme immigration policies, citing historical examples like family separations. We explore the current political climate, emphasizing the need for checks and balances in government to prevent abuses of power. The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to engage in advocacy, highlighting the power of collective resistance. ... Additional Resources: William McCorkle – The Conversation Immigration and U.S. citizenship | USAGov Six big immigration changes under Trump - and their impact so far - BBC News US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000 | Pew Research Center The impact of immigration on cultural diversity - Immigration & Residency Legal Immigration: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) Practice Mercy ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States Is America an Empire? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who is J.P. Morgan?

Episode 89

Tuesday, April 15, 2025 • Duration 44:11

This week, on the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, which was 113 years ago today, we’re shining a light on one of its biggest investors; a man who is as controversial as he was transformative to the future of America. The railroad, the steel industry, the treasury - all impacted greatly by his involvement and investment. So in this episode we’re going to explore the rise of one of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in American history, as I ask… who is J.P. Morgan? ... Special guest for this episode: Jean Strouse, one of the preeminent biographers of J.P. Morgan and author of Morgan: American Financier. Her accomplished career includes being President of the Society of American Historians, and a consultant to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation ... Highlights from this episode: On the anniversary of the Titanic's sinking, we dive into J.P. Morgan's controversial yet transformative impact on America's future, especially in finance and industry. Morgan was a key player in the railroad and steel industries, fundamentally changing the financial landscape of the United States during his time. Despite his immense influence, J.P. Morgan's wealth was debated; he was seen as not as rich as other contemporaries like Rockefeller, which adds complexity to his legacy. His early life was marked by privilege and education, shaping his future as a powerful banker who managed chaotic markets with a unique approach and keen understanding of finance. Morgan's contributions included organizing the creation of U.S. Steel and stabilizing financial crises, showcasing his dual role as a profit-driven businessman and a national stabilizer. Ultimately, J.P. Morgan's legacy is mixed; he is viewed as both a robber baron and a pivotal figure in America's economic development, leaving an imprint on culture and industry that persists today. ... Additional Resources: Morgan: American Financier by Jean Strouse ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What Makes Country Music so American? Are the Oscars Still Relevant? Why Does Everyone Love Disney? Could Friends BE Any Bigger? How Accurate is Forrest Gump? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BONUS: Is Social Media a Blessing or a Curse for Democracy?

Saturday, April 12, 2025 • Duration 18:54

In this lively bonus episode, we hit the rewind button to dig deeper into our earlier talk on the Internet’s influence on American politics, focusing on the undeniable role of social media. Liam and the brilliant Jennifer Stromer-Galley dive into the vibrant and sometimes volatile world of Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit. They contemplate whether social media is merely a tool for political communication, or if it has morphed into something far more complex, shaping narratives and influencing outcomes in ways we’re just beginning to understand. ... Special guest for this episode: Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a Professor in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. She is former president of the Association of Internet Researchers, and she is author of the widely-acclaimed book Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age. ... Highlights from this episode: In today's episode, we dove deep into how social media, especially platforms like Reddit and TikTok, has reshaped the way we consume news and engage in political discourse. We discussed how Trump and Musk are leveraging social media to influence American politics, creating both opportunities and concerns for democracy. Reddit's unique community-focused nature allows for more extensive discussions, setting it apart from quicker, more superficial platforms like Twitter. We also touched on the impact of campaign financing in politics, highlighting how money matters more than ever in shaping electoral outcomes and candidate viability. ... Additional Resources: Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age by Jennifer Stromer-Galley Jennifer Stromer-Galley - iSchool | Syracuse University Social Media: Are TikTok videos the way to win an election? - BBC News 12 States With Teens' Social Media Regulation- Is Yours One of Them? Facebook, Cambridge Analytica scandal: Everything you need to know ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What Was the Constitutional Convention? Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms? Is the President Above the Law? How Are Presidents Elected? What is the US Constitution? How Has the Internet Shaped American Politics? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Has Immigration Shaped American Identity?

Episode 88

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 • Duration 39:44

With the looming threat of mass deportations and the revocation of birthright citizenship, the atmosphere surrounding immigration in the United States is thick with uncertainty. In this episode, we dive into the complexities that shape the immigration debate, from passionate advocacy to fervent opposition. We shed light on the historical context of immigration in America, revealing how deeply interconnected it is with the nation's identity, and we explore the reasons behind the polarized views on immigration and examine how current political climates can drastically alter public discourse. We discuss the historical waves of immigration that have shaped the country, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs of immigrant communities, and how these narratives challenge the nativist tendencies that sometimes dominate the conversation. ... Special guest for this episode: Will McCorkle, an assistant professor of educational foundations and social studies education at the College of Charleston. His research focuses on the intersection of nationalism, immigration, and education with a particular focus on more marginalized migrant communities. ... Highlights from this episode: This episode dives deep into the complex landscape of U.S. immigration policies and their societal impacts. We discuss how immigration has shaped American identity, highlighting both support and opposition to migrant communities. The tension between America's ideals of freedom and the reality of immigration enforcement is a key theme in our conversation. It's fascinating how historical waves of immigration have influenced U.S. demographics and fueled the debate on immigration today. Understanding the legal pathways for immigrants reveals a complicated system often inaccessible for many seeking refuge. We also touch on the misconceptions surrounding immigrant crime rates, countering them with actual statistics and historical context. ... Additional Resources: William McCorkle – The Conversation Immigration and U.S. citizenship | USAGov Six big immigration changes under Trump - and their impact so far - BBC News US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000 | Pew Research Center The impact of immigration on cultural diversity - Immigration & Residency Legal Immigration: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) Practice Mercy ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: When Did the 50 States Become the 50 States Is America an Empire? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BONUS: The Rise of Fascism with Ece Temelkuran [FEED DROP via IF YOU WERE IN CHARGE]

Saturday, April 5, 2025 • Duration 01:02:19

On this bonus episode, we're doing something a little different, and sharing another podcast doing some great things. If You Were in Charge features global peace strategist Sanam Naraghi Anderlini talking to the frontline doers and imaginers—activists, organizers, and peacebuilders—whose lived experience, courage, and ideas are reshaping what’s possible. People who, if they were in charge, could change the world. In their first episode of season two, Sanam speaks to Ece Temelkuran, renowned author of How to Lose a Country: The 7 Steps from Democracy to Dictatorship, which explores the mechanisms of autocracy and the decline of democratic principles. . If You Were In Charge is brought to you by the Bjian Ghaisar Foundation And ICAN International Civil Society Action Network . ICAN’s newsletter: https://icanpeacework.org/2025/03/sign-up-to-icans-newsletter/ . Original Music, Little Monster Media Executive Producer: Pearse Lynch This is an Africa Digital Audio production . Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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How Has the Internet Shaped American Politics?

Episode 87

Tuesday, April 1, 2025 • Duration 46:56

This week, following an election cycle dominated by misinformation, AI, social media, and a… well, strange blossoming relationship between a Silicon Valley billionaire and the 47th President, I think it’s time to look closer at the relationship between technology and politics. How has social media impacted US politics? How is this being regulated? And ultimately, how has the internet changed American politics? ... Special guest for this episode: Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a Professor in the School of Information Studies at Syracuse University. She is former president of the Association of Internet Researchers, and she is author of the widely-acclaimed book Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age. ... Highlights from this episode: In this episode, we explored the complex relationship between technology and politics, particularly focusing on social media's influence in shaping political narratives and public opinion. Jennifer Stroma Galley shared insights on how social media platforms, especially during election cycles, have become battlegrounds for misinformation and targeted political advertising. We discussed the impact of tech giants like Elon Musk and their affiliations with political candidates, raising questions about the ethical implications of such relationships. The episode delves into the evolution of political fundraising through social media, highlighting how candidates like Trump have mastered the art of leveraging online platforms for financial support. We highlighted the importance of media literacy in today's information age, as the cacophony of voices online makes it challenging for individuals to discern fact from fiction. Listeners were reminded that while social media can empower grassroots movements, it also poses risks of misinformation and ideological echo chambers that can threaten democratic processes ... Additional Resources: Presidential Campaigning in the Internet Age by Jennifer Stromer-Galley Jennifer Stromer-Galley - iSchool | Syracuse University Social Media: Are TikTok videos the way to win an election? - BBC News 12 States With Teens' Social Media Regulation- Is Yours One of Them? Facebook, Cambridge Analytica scandal: Everything you need to know ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: What Was the Constitutional Convention? Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms? Is the President Above the Law? How Are Presidents Elected? What is the US Constitution? ... Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/ Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community? Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America: The Story of the USA – Details, episodes & analysis

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America: The Story of the USA – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other99+

RSS feed quality and score

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Latest published episodes

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Apple Podcasts

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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other99+

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