Newcomers in American Government
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With all the talk we’ve been hearing lately about potential “presidential firsts,” it’s easy to forget that the history of American government is a history of firsts. In our inaugural episode, the History Guys take on the age-old Beltway tradition of posturing as a “Washington outsider,” examine how women, African Americans and immigrants have found a voice in government, and look at the truth behind presidential promises of change.
Related Links
- Listen to Theresa Burroughs talk about her experience registering to vote in the 1940’s – courtesy Story Corps
- Watch Obama’s Spanish language campaign ad – YouTube
- Watch Hillary Clinton’s Spanish language campaign ad – YouTube




Great first show! You’re off to a very impressive start.
QuoteWhat a great concept. Would love to hear more about how it was conceived and created. You had me hooked at those hilarious introductions. Are you going to make these available nationally? I managed our local public radio station before I moved up to the humanities and would love to recommend it to the folks there. Here’s my idea for a future show: that always-elusive, oft-misunderstood — Pursuit of Happiness: From John Locke to Gen X.
QuoteI love radio, and am a big “consumer” of public radio programming. This is a great concept and so well executed. In this world of really empty political
Quotepunditry, this program really satisfies a need — and does it with a sense of humor.
Your callers are so smart, and the Guys so thoughtful and funny, that i’m sure “Backstory” will find a large and devoted audience. Keep these great shows coming!
QuoteThanks! I’m glad you liked the show. A new show starts airing tomorrow on the history of controversial wars. It will be available on this site and via the Podcast tonight.
We’ve currently got a show on traffic and transportation in the works. If you’ve got some thoughts, post it as a comment and we might contact you to be a part of the show!
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