Rendezvous With History

Last Branch Standing with Sarah Isgur

Sarah Isgur joins Anthony Eames on the podcast to discuss her new book: Last Branch Standing: A Potentially Surprising, Occasionally Witty Journey Inside Today’s Supreme Court. The conversation explores the history that shaped the Supreme Court into the counter-majoritarian institution it is today.

The History of Nuclear Weapons with Dr. David Holloway

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Professor David Holloway on the history of nuclear weapons, their strategic evolution, and their impact on international relations from WWII to the present. Discover insights into deterrence, technological advances, and regional conflicts that shaped the nuclear age.

First Ladies and the East Wing with Dr. Elizabeth Rees

Dr. Elizabeth Rees joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss the evolving role of the Office of the First Lady in American history, from early hostess duties to the changing demands of social secretaries and the impact of the East Wing on culture and political movements. Rees explores how the First Ladyship evolved over time without rules, giving every First Lady the ability and the right to make the role her own.

The History of Humanitarian Aid with Dr. Julia Irwin

Dr. Julia Irwin joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss her book: Catastrophic Diplomacy: US Foreign Disaster Assistance in the American Century. Irwin lays out the political motivations that shaped international disaster relief and dives into the history of USAID, the American Red Cross, and US military interventions.

The Minds Moving MAGA with Dr. Laura Field

Dr. Laura K. Field joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss her book, Furious Minds: The Making of the MAGA New Right. The conversation dives into who has a claim to Western Civilization, the overrepresentation of Catholic Integralists and postliberals in government, and how the Oresteia Trilogy inspired the book title. Field makes a strong case for hidden, deep roots that inform MAGA goals.

New Start and the History of Nuclear Arms Control with Dr. James Graham Wilson

Dr. James Graham Wilson joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss the ending of New START. The conversation explores the historical evolution of arms control, how technological developments impact negotiations, and the current geopolitical landscape.

Truman and the Bomb with Alex Wellerstein

Professor Alex Wellerstein joins to discuss his book, 'The Most Awful Responsibility,' which challenges conventional narratives about the use of atomic bombs on Japanese cities. Wellerstein argues that President Truman never decided whether to use the atomic bomb. The decision Truman actually made was regarding the bomb's target, where he misunderstood the cost to civilian lives. This episode explores the blind spots and humanity that impact Presidential decision making.

Policing, Politics, and Power: Rethinking the U.S.–Mexico Drug War with Dr. Aileen Teague

Host Dr. Anthony Eames welcomes Dr. Aileen Teague to discuss her landmark study, Policing on Drugs: The United States, Mexico, and the Origins of the Modern Drug War, 1969–2000. Teague examines the intertwined histories of U.S. supply-control strategies, PRI-era political violence, cross-border agency dynamics, and the profound effects of NAFTA and economic crisis on drug trafficking routes. This episode offers a nuanced, archival-driven reassessment of how policy, geopolitics, and local histories shaped the drug war we confront today.

Daniel Flynn on the Forgotten Architect of Conservatism

In this episode, host Anthony Eames interviews Daniel Flynn about his book 'The Man Who Invented Conservatism,' which explores the life and ideas of Frank Meyer, a pivotal figure in the American conservative movement. The conversation delves into Meyer's concept of fusionism, his early life, his transition from communism to conservatism, and his influential role at the National Review. Flynn highlights Meyer's relationships with key figures and his lasting impact on American political thought, particularly through his connections with prominent politicians like Goldwater and President Reagan.

Learning from the Past: Frank Gavin on History’s Modern Role

In this conversation, Professor Frank Gavin discusses the critical role of historical thinking in contemporary society, addressing its failings in informing foreign policy and civic unity. He emphasizes the importance of understanding history's methodology and the lessons learned from past events, particularly in the context of the global war on terror. Gavin also explores the implications of unprecedented technological changes and the necessity of a historical checklist for decision-making. The discussion concludes with insights on the current need for historical thinking in addressing modern challenges.