New Books in History

Clint Smith, a staff writer for The Atlantic and acclaimed author, delves into the legacy of slavery in America through the lens of his bestselling book. He explores historic sites like Monticello and Angola Prison, revealing how these places shape our understanding of enslavement. Smith discusses the complexities of public memory, the ethics of tourism at these sites, and the power of oral histories. He challenges listeners to confront the narratives we inherit and advocates for memorials that promote justice over nostalgia.

In her new book Madrid on the Move: Feeling Modern and Visually Aware in the Nineteenth Century (Manchester UP, 2021), Vanesa Rodríguez-Galindo explains how the modernization of this great city shaped and was shaped by print media and mass culture. A growing population, industrial immigration, mass connection with the wider world (making it both smaller and bigger), and the twilight of an empire shaped the Madrileños, their sense of identity, and their feelings of being modern and visually aware. A history of print media—and itself an example of print media—the book shows how people adapted to the dawning of a transnational, information age (perhaps a timely and familiar topic for today’s listener?) and presents a remarkable ‘glocal’ history of this event.Vanesa Rodriguez Galindo is a cultural and visual historian, working in urban studies, print cultures in Spain and Latin America, transnationalism, and women’s studies. She holds an MA in Metropolitan History from the Institute of Historical Research, University of London, and a PhD in History of Art from UNED, Madrid.Krzysztof Odyniec is a historian of the Spain and the Spanish Empire, specializing in sixteenth-century diplomacy and travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Martha Biondi, a Professor of Black Studies and History at Northwestern University, discusses her book about Prexy Nesbitt, an influential figure in the fight for African liberation. Biondi reveals how Nesbitt's early exposure to international struggles shaped his activism. She highlights the Chicago movement's collaboration with African liberation efforts and contrasts the internationalist perspective with pan-Africanism. The conversation also delves into the U.S. anti-apartheid movement and the complexities of post-apartheid negotiations, showcasing how Nesbitt's story enriches our understanding of global solidarity.

Georgios Giannakopoulos, a lecturer in Modern History at City St. George's, explores his book on British internationalism and empire in Southeastern Europe. He discusses how British intellectuals navigated regional nationalisms, using figures like Arthur Evans to reshape narratives about the area. Georgios dives into the impact of the 1870s, the politics of archaeology, and the role of gender in historical narratives. He also reflects on the legacy of these interpreters and their influence on both wartime policies and postwar discussions.

David T. Beito, a distinguished historian and professor emeritus, discusses his provocative book on Franklin D. Roosevelt. He reveals FDR's complex rise to power, marked by scandals and societal prejudices of his time. Beito explores the Newport sex scandal's impact on Roosevelt's life and career, his pragmatic approach to governance, and the New Deal's questionable origins. He sheds light on FDR's controversial banking policies and the unintended fallout from his ambitious regulatory efforts. Get ready for a deep dive into a multifaceted political legacy!

Diane T. Feldman, a historian and author specializing in Mississippi history and civil rights, dives deep into the struggle for power and equality in Holmes County. She uncovers the roots of local African American leadership during the civil rights movement and discusses the significance of cooperative landownership and the Church of God in Christ. Feldman highlights the fight for voting rights, the impact of the Great Depression, and ongoing local initiatives to revitalize food production. Her insights offer a compelling look at a community's resilience and activism.

Fang Yu Hu, an assistant professor of history at California State Polytechnic University, dives into her research on the education of Han Taiwanese girls during Japanese rule. She discusses how the 'Good Wife, Wise Mother' program aimed to shape modern female citizenship and the complexities of Taiwanese responses to this initiative. The podcast explores the impact of schooling on women's roles, marriage, and the nostalgia for the colonial period. Hu reveals surprising themes from her interviews and hints at her next project about Taiwanese migrants.

Anastasija Ropa, a medievalist and author of *The Medieval Horse*, discusses the vital role of horses in shaping medieval societies across Eurasia. She shares her journey from horse racing to studying historical horsemanship. Ropa delves into the practical uses of horses for travel and agriculture, varying military roles, and the emotional bonds people formed with them. Fascinating tidbits include medieval superstitions, equine burial practices, and the preservation of ancient myths. Ropa's insights reveal the deep connections that have long existed between humans and horses.

Charles Watkins, a Professor of rural geography at the University of Nottingham, discusses his book on humanity's intricate relationship with trees. He delves into how trees shape cultural identities, the evolution of ancient woodlands, and the modern threats they face from urban expansion and climate change. Watkins critiques urban tree management, explores the fascinating practice of coppicing, and highlights the symbolic power of iconic trees like the Glastonbury thorn. He also addresses rewilding debates and the need for diverse species in future forestry.

Mimi Abramovitz, a renowned scholar and author of social welfare policy, dives deep into the historical and modern dynamics of the U.S. welfare state. She unveils how gender and race shape welfare programs, highlighting the stigmatization of single mothers and the exclusion of Black women. Abramovitz argues that welfare can empower women and fuel social movements, despite ongoing punitive policies. She reflects on recent legislative challenges, including threats to Social Security under the second Trump administration, while also discussing feminist reforms that have improved benefits.