Throughline

Barbara Mundy, an art historian and professor at Tulane University, dives into the rich history of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, and the myths surrounding its conquest. She explores the vibrant culture of Tenochtitlan and the stark contrast between the lives of the elite and commoners. Mundy highlights indigenous perspectives that challenge traditional European narratives, showcasing the resilience of the Aztecs. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding historical events through indigenous voices to reshape our view of the lasting impacts of colonialism.

Dive into the groundbreaking world of 'Soul Train,' the iconic show that transformed Black music and dance on television. Discover how it created community and joy, bringing families together in celebration. Delve into Don Cornelius's vision that challenged racial biases and uplifted African-American culture. Explore its cultural empire that launched careers and pioneered trends. The legacy of this vibrant dance phenomenon still echoes today, paving the way for future music evolutions and crossover trends in the industry.

Heidi Schreck, an accomplished actor and writer, shines a light on her personal journey with the U.S. Constitution in this thought-provoking discussion. She explores the document's complex legacy, reflecting on its protective ideals juxtaposed with its failures. Through anecdotes, she connects familial struggles with broader societal issues, emphasizing how the Constitution shapes American identity. Schreck also critiques the legal system’s shortcomings for women's rights, urging listeners to confront historical injustices that continue to resonate today.

Eric Garcia, Senior Washington correspondent for The Independent and author of *We're Not Broken*, shares his expertise on autism. He dispels myths surrounding the autism spectrum and advocates for a shift in societal perceptions, prioritizing quality of life over outdated beliefs. Garcia critiques media narratives, discusses the importance of accurate information, and emphasizes the need for systemic support. He passionately calls for validating autistic experiences and fostering inclusivity, aiming to transform the dialogue around autism for better understanding.

Larry Kramer, former dean of Stanford Law School and author of 'The People Themselves,' delves into the evolving power of the Supreme Court. He discusses how the judiciary's authority has expanded well beyond its original scope, touching on pivotal cases like Marbury v. Madison and Dred Scott. Kramer also explores the political dynamics that have shaped Supreme Court decisions throughout history, reflecting on their impact on civil rights and state authority. The conversation raises crucial questions about the balance of power in American democracy.

Journalist Steve Cole, an expert on Afghanistan and dean at Columbia’s journalism school, dives deep into the Taliban's origins. He explores the dramatic shift from local vigilantes to a dominant force, shaped by historical complexities and foreign influences. Personal stories highlight the resilience of Afghan culture amidst conflict. Cole examines significant figures like Ahmad Shah Massoud, the impact of the Soviet invasion, and the harsh realities of life under the Taliban, revealing the multifaceted nature of Afghanistan's tumultuous history.

Afghanistan has long stood at the crossroads of civilizations, rich with history and culture. The narrative shifts from outsider perspectives to the voices of mystics and poets, revealing a land of love, liberation, and resilience. Discover the impact of key figures like Rumi and Mahmoud Tarzi, who shaped a nation's identity amidst struggle. Explore the profound role of radio in expressing cultural shifts and hear personal stories of survival and hope, all while examining a complex landscape of modernization and tradition.

What happens after everything falls apart? The end of the Bronze Age was a moment when an entire network of ancient civilizations collapsed, leaving behind only clues to what happened. Today, scholars have pieced together a story where everything from climate change to mass migration to natural disasters played a role. What the end of the Bronze Age can teach us about avoiding catastrophe and what comes after collapse.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Octavia Butler's alternate realities and 'speculative fiction' reveal striking, and often devastating parallels to the world we live in today. She was a deep observer of the human condition, perplexed and inspired by our propensity towards self-destruction. Butler was also fascinated by the cyclical nature of history, and often looked to the past when writing about the future. Along with her warning is her message of hope - a hope conjured by centuries of survival and persistence. For every society that perishes in her books comes a story of rebuilding, of repair.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

Venezuela is facing an economic and humanitarian crisis as extreme poverty and violence have forced many to flee the country in recent years. How did a country once wealthy with oil resources fall into such turmoil? Through the lives of two revolutionaries turned authoritarian leaders separated by two centuries, we look back at the rise and fall of Venezuela.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy