Kenneth C. Davis

Kenneth C. Davis, bestselling historian behind the Don't Know Much About History series, guides a brisk tour of presidential history and how slavery shaped the republic. He tackles myths about Washington, the framers’ defenses against strongmen, and modern efforts to erase uncomfortable truths. Short, provocative takes that urge readers to confront and preserve a fuller national memory.

Who invented the president? Which country had the first president? We answer presidential questions historical in nature with author Kenneth C. Davis . Also in the episode: why do leaves change color in the fall?

Ken Burns, renowned documentary filmmaker, and his collaborator Sarah Botstein discuss their latest project on the American Revolution, uncovering diverse voices and the complexities of the era. Julian Brave Noisecat shares insights from his book, weaving indigenous storytelling with historical narratives. Avery Trufelman explores the influence of military clothing on modern fashion. Finally, historian Kenneth C. Davis reviews the evolution of Thanksgiving traditions over the last century, revealing its multifaceted history and the impact of politics on family gatherings.

Irene Kearns from the Smithsonian discusses the evolving teaching of Indigenous histories and the misconceptions surrounding Thanksgiving. Weird Al Yankovic shares behind-the-scenes stories of his parodic career, including his new single. Stacey D’Erasmo explores how artists sustain creativity over their careers, while Emily Weinstein celebrates iconic recipes from NYT Cooking. Kenneth C. Davis advocates for short nonfiction reading, and Lynne Peeples highlights the importance of circadian rhythms on health, offering tips for better sleep.

Kenneth C. Davis, an acclaimed author known for his "Don't Know Much About History" series, dives into the rich history of Thanksgiving. He discusses how the holiday evolved from a religious observance to a secular celebration, influenced by events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Kenneth unpacks misconceptions about the Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving, shares personal stories of family traditions, and examines the economic factors that shaped the holiday's date. The conversation also touches on the modern political tensions that can arise during Thanksgiving gatherings.