The Socialist Challenge: A History of Socialism in America

woman holding an American (US) flag and a flag with a hammer and sickle illustrates the history of socialism in America

What’s the history of socialism in America? What have socialists aimed to advance, and why haven’t they been more successful? In his book A People’s History of the United States, Howard Zinn delves into American socialism, tracing its growth and impact. The Socialist Party of America promoted workers’ rights and government regulation but faced challenges as it pushed for collective ownership. Keep reading to learn about “the Socialist Challenge” according to Howard Zinn.

Ukraine’s Drone Attacks on Russia (The Daily Podcast)

military drone with missiles flying over a mountainous area representing Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russia

How does Ukraine’s secretive drone program aim to counter Russian aggression? What are the key concerns regarding the potential escalation of conflict resulting from Ukraine’s drone attacks on Russia itself? An episode of The Daily podcast dived into the bold and secretive world of Ukraine’s drone warfare initiative as it ventures into Russian territory. The discussion explored themes of adaptation, psychological impact, and global implications. Continue reading for a summary of the episode, along with important context, perspectives worth considering, and recommendations for further reading.

The Importance of Entertainment for Creativity and Inspiration

A flat screen television with nature on the screen, emphasizing the importance of entertainment.

What’s the importance of entertainment? What’s the “cinema of the mind?” The hosts of Last Podcast on the Left dive into the nature of entertainment in the episode, “Side Stories: Ham Hands.” Particularly, they show appreciation for personal creative thoughts—a theme resonating with reflective listeners. Let’s look at why entertainment has such a profound effect on people.

A People’s History of the Labor Movement in America

Workers at a factory in the early 20th century illustrate the history of labor movement in America

What’s the history of the labor movement in America? Why did they organize? What obstacles have they had to deal with? Howard Zinn explains that in the decades following the Civil War, the US industrialized at a rapid pace and became a global power—at the expense of American laborers. He explores the consequences of industrialization, how laborers resisted them, and the challenges the labor movement faced. Continue reading to learn about the labor movement in America, according to A People’s History of the United States.

The Great Depression and the New Deal: A People’s History

A poor American family holding a “Job Wanted” in the street sign illustrates history of the Great Depression and the New Deal

What’s the history of the Great Depression and the New Deal? Did the New Deal truly solve the problems caused by the Depression? Howard Zinn analyzes the Great Depression and the New Deal, highlighting the surge in labor unrest and activism. Despite the introduction of social programs, the New Deal ultimately favored elite interests and failed to address racial issues, particularly the ongoing neglect of Black Americans. Read more to learn more about this historical perspective.

A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn: Overview

young man reading a book outside in a large city

How well do you know American history? Have you been exposed to all sides of it? A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn provides a bottom-up view of American history focusing on Indigenous people, Black Americans, women, laborers, and activists. In doing so, he shares an alternative perspective of significant events, themes, and historical trends in American history. Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of this major undertaking.

Ted Bundy’s Early Childhood: Living With Scandal and Trouble

Ted Bundy's name carved into a wall.

What was Ted Bundy’s early childhood like? Did his childhood shape who he became as an adult? On the Morbid podcast, the hosts delve into Bundy’s formative years, challenging the notion that a troubled childhood can justify future crimes. They reveal his convoluted family situation, being born to an unmarried teenage mother in the 1940s and raised with the belief that his grandparents were his parents.  Keep reading to learn more about the environment Bundy grew up in.

War Is the Health of the State: Howard Zinn on the World Wars

Troops fighting in a trench in World War I, of which it's been said that "War is the health of the state"

Why did the United States enter World War I and World War II? Who benefited? In A People’s History of the United States, historian Howard Zinn discusses World War I and World War II in the chapters “War Is the Health of the State” and “A People’s War?” The wars represented some of the first times the new American empire acted on a global stage. Keep reading to learn about American participation in each war and the popular response to them.

How Did Ted Bundy Get Caught? The Serial Killer’s Arrest

A black and white image of Ted Bundy after he got caught.

How did Ted Bundy get caught? What were the leads that pointed to Bundy’s guilt? Eventually, Ted Bundy’s daring and heinous acts began to leave a trail that led to his capture. Through eyewitness accounts and police investigations, the hosts of Morbid discuss the eventual downfall of Bundy.  Read more to learn how Bundy was exposed for who he truly was.