Western Civ

Today I begin a short series on pre-Columbian North American Indian history and culture. In this episode, I give a broad overview of several aspects of Native American culture and their use of fire to craft the world around them.Western Civ 2.0

Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson found Rhode Island.Western Civ Podcast 2.0 Free Trial

In this bonus author interview, I sit down with Colonel Joseph Molyson Jr and discuss the second book in his series on World War Two: Air Battles Before D-Day: How Allied Airmen Crippled the Luftwaffe and German Army in France. In this groundbreaking analysis, retired Air Force Colonel Joseph T. Molyson reveals how a year of strategic bombing and aerial warfare created the conditions necessary for D-Day's success. Drawing on his thirty years of military intelligence experience, Molyson pieces together the complex puzzle of amphibious planning, airborne operations, and inter-Allied coordination that culminated in Operation Overlord. Key revelations include:How the Allied victory in the Battle of the Atlantic enabled the crucial flow of American resourcesThe strategic bombing campaign's dual role in weakening both German industry and Luftwaffe capabilitiesThe intricate coordination between British night raids and American daylight bombing missionsPreviously overlooked connections between air superiority and the success of the D-Day landingsPerfect for military history enthusiasts and World War II scholars alike, this meticulously researched account offers fresh insights into the aerial strategy that changed the course of history.Buy the book HERE.Support the show HERE.

Today I sit down with advocate and author Maria Foscarinis and discuss her latest book: And Housing for All: The fight to End Homelessness in America.In And Housing for All, founder of the National Homelessness Law Center Maria Foscarinis reveals the human impact of the housing crisis by sharing personal stories and examining the flawed policies that have perpetuated it. As millions face rising housing costs and encampments spread nationwide, she uncovers why past efforts have failed and what must change to achieve lasting solutions.Drawing from over 35 years of national advocacy, Foscarinis shares compelling stories of individuals and families impacted by homelessness, highlighting their resilience and growing leadership. Blending personal narratives with policy analysis, she reveals how deliberate decisions have fueled the crisis and how public narratives have sustained it.And Housing for All is essential reading for social justice advocates, policymakers, lawyers, and anyone invested in solving one of America’s most pressing challenges.Buy the book HERE.Support the show HERE.

John Winthrop and others found the Massachusetts Bay Company.Western Civ 2.0 Podcast Free Trial

Jamestown was not the only English colony. Enter stage left: the Pilgrims. (Well, really Separatists but you get the point...)Western Civ Podcast 2.0

The English at Jamestown finally find a savior. It just turns out that savior is tobacco...Western Civ Podcast 2.0

Jamestown survives as James Smith guides the colony. Meanwhile, in London, new plans are hatched to turn Jamestown profitable.Western Civ 2.0

A reminder that every other episode of the series on Jamestown will be available only to patrons. To try a free membership for a week or to support the show and get access to all the materials, check out the link below.Western Civ 2.0

Today, I sit down with Tom McMillan and discuss his most recent book: The Year That Made America: From Rebellion to Independence, 1775-1776.This gripping account reveals the precarious path to American independence through a series of pivotal dates that history has nearly forgotten. While July 4th claims the glory, the actual vote for independence came on July 2nd—and even that historic moment almost didn't happen. From January's publication of Common Sense to December's darkest hours of the Revolution, McMillan reconstructs the dramatic months when rebellious colonies transformed into a new nation.Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book reveals:How the pivotal events of May 15, June 7, and July 2 shaped America's destinyWhy Congress's bold January declaration triggered a chain of unstoppable eventsThe behind-the-scenes feud between Adams and Jefferson on their views of government after independence was wonHow the Declaration's influence extended from Lincoln's Gettysburg Address to modern timesThis timely narrative strips away the myths to expose the raw political courage that launched a revolution. From heated Congressional debates to the dangerous aftermath of declaring independence, McMillan delivers a fresh perspective on America's founding that resonates powerfully with today's political challenges.Buy The Book