Shownotes
In this special bonus episode, Emma Long and Frank Cogliano delve into the historical context that shaped the Constitution, recorded straight after our earlier episode of the podcast, What Was the Constitutional Convention?
The discussion centers around misconceptions about the U.S. Constitution and the Constitutional Convention, particularly focusing on the complexities of the three-fifths compromise and the perceived unchangeability of the Constitution.
...
Special guest for this episode:
- Dr. Emma Long, Associate Professor of American History and Politics and Head of the Department of American Studies at the University of East Anglia.
- Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History at Edinburgh University. Originally from Massachusetts, he’s been living in the UK since 1992, teaching all of us a thing or two about the USA.
...
Highlights from this episode:
- The Constitutional Convention's three-fifths compromise is often misunderstood regarding enslaved people's status.
- Many believe the Constitution is unchangeable, but the framers anticipated amendments and adjustments.
- The Articles of Confederation are frequently overlooked, despite being America's first governing document before the Constitution.
- The Federalist Papers were political propaganda aimed at convincing states to ratify the Constitution, not neutral explanations.
- Edinburgh is a lovely city, but the conversation also highlights the charm of Massachusetts.
- The Confederate States modeled their constitution largely on the U.S. Constitution with added protections for slavery.
...
Listen to the full episode with Emma and Frank here:
What Was the Constitutional Convention?
...
And if you like this episode, you might also love:
What Was the Constitutional Convention?
Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms?
Is the President Above the Law?
How Are Presidents Elected?
What is the US Constitution?
...
Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
