Historians in the News

The Historian Jon Meacham, Who Wrote Of ‘The Soul Of America,’ Has Been Working On Biden’s Speeches

"Behind the scenes, Mr. Meacham has been playing a larger role than was previously known, both writing drafts of speeches and offering edits on many of Mr. Biden’s big addresses, including one he gave at Gettysburg last month and his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention in August."

What Is Trump Playing At?

Times Columnist Thomas B. Edsall interviews a number of historians for perspective on Trump's refusal to concede the election or acknowledge the legitimacy of his defeat. Although few think a coup is imminent, most agree that this is a dangerous precedent that is unlikely to vanish when Trump leaves the scene.

The Dangers of Trump's Last Stand

While Trump's refusal to concede is alarming, historians Federico Finchelstein, Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Samuel Moyn say that Trump's presidency has been mostly bark and little bite; he has the bluster of a dictator, but not the skill or diligence to consolidate his power to transform major institutions. 

How the World Gave Up on the Stateless (Review)

Over 10 million people are stateless today, and governments seem hell-bent on increasing their numbers. A new book examines how the rise of modern states created the dire circumstance of statelessness. 

Trump’s Presidency May Be Over. The Effects of Trumpism on Campus are Not

The Trump presidency has raised issues about the extent of racial resentment in White America, the significance of identity politics, and the place of intellectual discovery and academic research in American life that are a long way from resolution. 

Alexander Hamilton, Enslaver? New Research Says Yes

A paper by a researcher at the Schuyler Mansion finds overlooked evidence in letters and Hamilton’s own account books indicating that he bought, sold and personally owned slaves.  

No Modern Presidential Candidate has Refused to Concede. Here’s Why that Matters.

Here’s how the loser’s concession went from nonexistent to an essential custom that all candidates have observed—albeit some less graciously than others.

The Native American Government That Inspired the US Constitution

The government of the Iroquois Confederacy wasn't a template for the Constitution, but it was an example, visible to the framers, of concepts of federalism that were only abstractions in European political theory. 

A Historical Perspective on Black & African American Capitalism (November 17)

Historian Marcia Chatelain will discuss the influence of franchised businesses on Black and African American business at noon on November 17. 

‘Game-Changer’: Kamala Harris Makes History As Next Vice President

Historian Manisha Sinha contends that Kamala Harris's ascent to the vice presidency helps to make the case for America as an interracial democracy of men and women including immigrants.

What Public Education Advocates Want to See in Biden’s Pick to Succeed Betsy Devos

Education historian Diane Ravitch and education policy advocate Carol Burris write for Valerie Straus's education column and recommend rejecting the failed experiment applying market values to public schools through "choice," charter schools, and high-stakes testing.

There’s A Long History Behind Stacey Abrams

Historian Martha S. Jones places Stacey Abrams's political leadership in Georgia in the historical context of Black women's political organizing and activism. 

‘Harris Has the Potential To Change the Face of U.S. Politics’

Historians Tera Hunter, Keisha Blain, Daina Ramey Berry, Manisha Sinha and Joanne Freeman are among experts who predict the impact of Harris's service as Vice President. 

An American Pogrom (Review)

by David W. Blight

David W. Blight reviews a new book on the 1898 Wilmington massacre and the violent overthrow of multiracial democracy in North Carolina. 

In Memoriam: Jenny Tone-Pah-Hote (1980–2020)

by Malinda Maynor Lowery

"Her contributions to historical scholarship, undergraduate teaching, and graduate mentorship will be remembered, and deeply missed, by all who knew her."

The Pandemic Is Dragging On. Professors Are Burning Out.

"For professors of all types, their responsibilities as teachers are causing many of them to feel pressed to meet the needs of the moment."

A Disputed Election Delivered 3 governors to Georgia – at the Same Time

by John A. Tures

As election results continue to come in around the country, it’s worth recalling that once, the state of Georgia found itself with a dead governor-elect – and three politicians who each insisted he was the real governor.

ASU Professor Explains 'Interracial Racism' And The History Between Asian And Black Americans

Asian American studies scholar Karen Kuo discusses the complex relationship between Asian and African Americans and sources of solidarity and division among minority groups. 

Inside Retro Report's Fact Checking Process

Joe Hogan, head of fact-checking at Retro Report, explains why fact-checking is a needed skill today.

Historian On What Might Come Next In 2020 Election

Julian Zelizer joins "Here and Now" to discuss the yet-unfinished election and what may come next.