Arsenal for Democracy: Recent Episodes
Bill Humphrey
Oct 15, 2023: After a dozen years, this show is ending. But it’s for some very cool and exciting reasons described herein, and we would love to hear from our loyal listeners as we bid this project farewell and move on to new things.
The post Update for Our Listeners appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon (paused this summer): Bill and Rachel discuss Louis F. Post, an early Assistant US Labor Secretary with some radical leanings, who ended up blocking thousands of post-WWI deportations. Links and notes for ep. 379 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bonus-AFD-Ep-379-Links-and-Notes-Louis-F-Post.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Jun 1, 2021 – Louis F. Post – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 379 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon (paused this summer): Bill and Rachel discuss the present-day influences of the momentous 1920 US Census, which grappled with trends in urbanization and the recent breakup of several major home countries of immigrants. Links and notes for ep. 375 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bonus-AFD-Ep-375-The-1920-Census.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] May 18, 2021 – The 1920 Census – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 375 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon (on pause this summer): Bill and Rachel take a look at the Alien Registration (Smith) Act of 1940, still on the books today, which prohibits advocating the violent overthrow of the US government. Links and notes for ep. 371 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Bonus-AFD-Ep-371-Links-and-Notes-The-Alien-Registration-Act-_-Smith-Act-of-1940.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] May 4, 2021 – The Smith Act – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 371 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon (on pause this summer): Bill and Rachel discuss the failed IWW strike at the Port of Los Angeles in 1923, including Upton Sinclair getting arrested and the Klan menacing strikers. Links and notes for ep. 361 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bonus-AFD-Ep-361-Links-and-Notes-1923-San-Pedro-Maritime-Strike.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Mar 23, 2021 – The 1923 San Pedro Maritime Strike – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 361 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon (on pause this summer): Bill and Rachel discuss dropped ceilings and the rise and fall of the mid-century office. It’s an area that could probably use some academic study. Links and notes for ep. 355 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bonus-AFD-Ep-355-Links-and-Notes-Dropped-Ceilings.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Mar 2, 2021 – Dropped Ceilings – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 355 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A mini-episode from Bill and Rachel on how a major defense contract led to the iconic KitchenAid stand mixer, followed by some announcements about the podcast for the summer months ahead.
Links and notes for ep. 471 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AFD-Ep-471-Links-and-Notes-KitchenAid-Mini-episode.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 28, 2023 – KitchenAid – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 471 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
150 years ago, in May 1873, work began on developing the breakthrough design for mass-produced barbed wire, with wide-ranging (pun intended) implications for agriculture, society, and warfare.
Links and notes for ep. 470 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AFD-Ep-470-Links-and-Notes-Barbed-Wire.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 14, 2023 – Barbed Wire – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 470 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
After a quick chat about the ongoing 2023 Writers Guild of America strike, we look back at a few of the noteworthy strikes in Hollywood of years past. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 469 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AFD-Ep-469-Links-and-Notes-Hollywood-Strikes.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 7, 2023 – Hollywood Strikes – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 469 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
This week we are talking about the field of home economics or domestic science. Was it really a science? To what extent was it a marketing exercise? Can it ever really overcome its founding racist and classist overtones? Does home economics even exist anymore?
Links and note for ep. 468 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AFD-Ep-468-Links-and-Notes-Home-Economics_Domestic-Science.pdf
Opening music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 30, 2023 – Home Economics/Domestic Science – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 468 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The non-profit Council on Books in Wartime (from US publishers) during World War II single-handedly made a bunch of books like The Great Gatsby into major American texts by providing specialized paperback copies free to the troops. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 467 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AFD-Ep-467-Links-and-Notes-Council-on-Books-in-Wartime.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
(Photo via Library of Congress)The post Apr 23, 2023 – The Council on Books in Wartime – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 467 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
From 1934 to 1936, the US Senate’s Nye Committee examined the role of the private defense industry (and capitalism more broadly) in fomenting global conflict and dragging the US into WWI. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 466 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AFD-Ep-466-Links-and-Notes-The-Nye-Committee.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 15, 2023 – The Nye Committee – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 466 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The recent failure of Silicon Valley Bank and federal intervention to protect its previously uninsured accounts has brought renewed focus to Federal Deposit Insurance. Contrary to popular belief, it was not part of the New Deal and was not championed by FDR. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 465 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AFD-Ep-465-Links-and-Notes-Federal-Deposit-Insurance.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 9, 2023 – Federal Deposit Insurance – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 465 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The failed anthracite coal mine workers strike of 1887-88 in eastern Pennsylvania illustrates some of the fault lines and contradictions within capitalism and highlight some of the ways our 21st century economy is devolving back toward older patterns. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 464 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/AFD-Ep-464-Links-and-Notes-Anthracite-Coal-Strike-of-1887-88.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 2, 2023 – The Anthracite Coal Strike of 1887-88 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 464 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Have you ever wondered what the absolute peak example of neoliberal policy is? Bill and Rachel submit to you that it might be the tradable Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) in effect since 1986.
Links and notes for ep. 381 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bonus-AFD-Ep-381-Links-and-Notes-The-Low-Income-Housing-Tax-Credits-of-1986.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] June 8, 2021 – The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit of 1986 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 381 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Bill and Rachel discuss the Red Ark (or Soviet Ark) deportations of Russian-born American anarchists in 1919. (Don’t miss our two part series from 2019 on American anarchist history!)
Links and notes for ep. 377 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bonus-AFD-Ep-377-Links-and-Notes-The-Red-Ark.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] May 25, 2021 – The Red Ark – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 377 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
At the start of the 20th century, eccentric inventor and utopian theorist King C. Gillette developed the disposable blade for safety razors, launching one of the most influential, trend-setting American corporations of all time, for good or ill. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 463 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AFD-Ep-463-Links-and-Notes-Gillette.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Mar 12, 2023 – Gillette – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 463 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
150 years ago last week, on March 3rd, 1873, the Comstock Laws on obscenity, including birth control and abortion supplies or information, became part of the US Criminal Code. (Bill and Rachel.)
Links and notes for ep. 462 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AFD-Ep-462-Links-and-Notes-March-1873_-Comstock-Laws.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post March 1873: The Comstock Laws – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 462 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In 1972, some employees made a leveraged buyout of the Chicago and North Western Railway and re-branded it as “Employee-Owned.” The reality was much more complicated and reveals a lot about railroading and American capitalism generally in the 1970s and 1980s. (Bill and Rachel)
Links and notes for ep. 461 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AFD-Ep-461-Links-and-Notes-The-Employee-Owned-Chicago-and-North-Western-Railway_-Hype-vs-Reality.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post The “Employee-Owned” Chicago and North Western Railway: Hype vs Reality – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 461 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A quick look at the evolution of car starter and ignition technology, from hand-crank disasters to viral video car theft trends. (Bill and Rachel.)
Links and notes for ep. 460 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AFD-Ep-460-Links-and-Notes-Car-Starters-and-Ignitions.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Feb 20, 2023 – Car Starters and Ignitions – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 460 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
186 years ago, with the US economy starting to melt down, New Yorkers rioted against alleged grain and flour hoarding. But discontent was much more widespread, as Locofocos and armed “Patriot” paramilitaries soon made clear. Bill and Rachel.
Links and notes for ep. 459 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AFD-Ep-459-Links-and-Notes-NYC-Flour-Riot-of-1837.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post The New York City Flour Riot of February 1837 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 459 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In 1857, Waltham, Massachusetts jumped from the First to the Second Industrial Revolution by becoming the global home of the mass-produced pocketwatch, capitalizing on the railroad industry and then the American Civil War.
Links and notes for ep. 458 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/AFD-Ep-458-Links-and-Notes-1IR_-Watch-City.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Feb 5, 2023 – Watch City – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 458 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
How some of the most powerful, wealthy political players in antebellum Massachusetts went from controlling state politics completely to hopelessly funding the Constitutional Union Party in 1860. [Continued from parts I and II]
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
Links and notes for ep. 457 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/AFD-Ep-457-Links-and-Notes-1IR_-The-Boston-Associates-Part-III_-The-Doomed-Whigs.pdf
The post The Boston Associates, Part III: The Doomed Whigs – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 457 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
As an early group of 19th century Boston investors became even richer with less effort, via textile production, and as society became more alienated, they turned from charity to philanthropy to protect their power (and to have something to do). [Continued from part I.]
Links and notes for ep. 456 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/AFD-Ep-456-Links-and-Notes-1IR_-The-Boston-Associates-Part-II_-The-Creation-of-American-Philanthropy.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post The Boston Associates, Part II: The Invention of American Philanthropy – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 456 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In the 1810s, a close-knit group of rich investors based in Boston decided to adopt and adapt emerging industrial capitalism, via the textile industry, in a way that would preserve and grow their existing wealth and power. The Waltham-Lowell System was born.
Links and notes for ep. 455 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/AFD-Ep-455-Links-and-Notes-1IR_-The-Boston-Associates.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post The Boston Associates, Part I: Rise of the Machines – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 455 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
To prepare for a series on early industrial Massachusetts we’re unlocking this episode from Patreon: Bill and Rachel examine what an 1842 Massachusetts court decision can tell us about the process of industrialization and the emergence of labor unions and what parallels we can draw for modern gig workers.
Links and notes for ep. 349 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Bonus-AFD-Ep-349-Links-and-Notes-State-level-labor-law-part-2_-Early-history.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Feb 9, 2021 – State-Level Labor Law, Part II – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 349 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Bill and Rachel discuss the 2005 documentary “Sir! No Sir!” on US military service members who resisted the Vietnam War.
Links and notes for ep. 373 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bonus-AFD-Ep-373-Links-and-Notes-Military-Resistance-to-the-Vietnam-War.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] May 11, 2021 – Military Resistance to the Vietnam War – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 373 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel discuss some interesting American history topics from 150, 100, and 50 years ago that did not make the cut for their own full anniversary episodes this year.
Links and notes for ep. 454 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/AFD-Ep-454-Links-and-Notes-2022-Year-End-Anniversary-Roundup-Episode.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 27, 2022 – 1872, 1922, and 1972 in review – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 454 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In 1887, the Knights of Labor organized a huge strike by Black sugarcane workers in Louisiana, which was suppressed with massive lethal force. (Content warning.) New Orleans-based guest Justin LaGrande returns to discuss the circumstances and recent efforts to bring it to greater light.
Links and notes for ep. 453 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/AFD-Ep-453-Links-and-Notes-Thibodaux-Massacre-of-1887.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 18, 2022 – The Thibodaux Massacre of 1887 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 453 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel examine the relatively minor failed Burlington railroad engineers and firemen strike in 1888, which had a profound effect on Eugene V. Debs.
Links and notes for ep. 452 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/AFD-Ep-452-Links-and-Notes-Burlington-railroad-strike-of-1888.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 11, 2022 – The Burlington Railroad Strike of 1888 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 452 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel and Bill discuss the history of the microwave oven since its invention at a defense contractor.
Links and notes for ep. 451 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/AFD-Ep-451-Links-and-Notes-Microwave-Oven.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 3, 2022 – Microwave Ovens – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 451 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In this mini-episode, Rachel explains the invention of Ed Pulaski’s popular firefighting tool, a combination axe and adze, after the infamous Big Burn forest fire in Idaho in August 1910. Links and notes from ep. 450 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AFD-Ep-450-Links-and-Notes-The-Pulaski-Tool.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Nov 27, 2022 – The Pulaski – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 450 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel explore the disappointments of the Great Southwest Railroad strike of 1886 and reflect on potential lessons for present-day railroad labor relations. (Note: After we recorded this episode, the results were released for the 2022 rail worker votes on tentative agreements. The engineers narrowly approved the proposed contract, … Read more
The post Nov 20, 2022 – The Great Southwest Railroad Strike of 1886 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 449 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
How the development of the autorack rail car from the 1950s to the 1980s might have contributed to the relocation of US auto industry factories inside the US. (Bill and Rachel.) Links and notes for ep. 448 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AFD-Ep-448-Links-and-Notes-The-Autorack.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Nov 13, 2022 – The Autorack – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 448 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel look at the arc of office document management technology from the 1886 filing cabinet to the 1959 Xerox machine and the required underlying developments that made them possible. Links and notes for ep. 447 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AFD-Ep-447-Links-and-Notes-From-Filing-Cabinets-to-Xerox.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Nov 6, 2022 – From Filing Cabinets to Xerox – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 447 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel discuss the philosophy of the prominent antebellum public education champion (and abolitionist Congressman) Horace Mann of Massachusetts. Links and notes for ep. 446 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AFD-Ep-446-Links-and-Notes-Horace-Mann.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Oct 30, 2022 – Horace Mann – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 446 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel and Bill discuss the various legislation behind so-called Mine Reclamation and Superfund cleanup sites. Links and notes for ep. 445 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AFD-Ep-445-Links-and-Notes-Superfund-Sites-and-Mine-Reclamation.pdf Intro music by Stunt Bird.
The post Oct 23, 2022 – Mine Reclamation and Superfund – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 445 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Americans built thousands upon thousands of dams, large and small, across the US for centuries, but no longer do. In fact, dozens are being removed annually. Bill and Rachel look at the Teton Dam Collapse and the broader end of American dam-building. Links and notes for ep. 444 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AFD-Ep-444-Links-and-Notes-The-End-of-American-Dams.pdf … Read more
The post Oct 16, 2022 – The End of American Dams – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 444 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel review Ben Tarnoff’s intriguing materialist history/policy book “Internet for the People” (Verso Books, 2022), which offers a critique of anti-monopoly reformism in favor of de-privatization. Notes for ep. 443 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Book-Review-Notes-on-_Internet-for-the-People_-by-Ben-Tarnoff-2022-Verso.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Oct 10, 2022 – Book Review: “Internet for the People” – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 443 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel look at southern Idaho’s curious history with irrigation land reclamation projects under the Carey Act in former beaver country and explore what this can tell us about American history much more broadly. Links and notes for ep. 442 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/AFD-Ep-442-Links-and-Notes-Carey-Act.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Oct 2, 2022 – The Carey Act – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 442 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel returns from a microbiology trip to the CDC in Atlanta and presents an episode on its history. Links and notes for ep. 441 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/AFD-Ep-441-Links-and-Notes-History-of-the-CDC.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Sept 25, 2022 – History of the CDC – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 441 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Justin from Well There’s Your Problem Podcast joins Bill to talk about why US labor laws are different for railroad workers and the material and structural causes of the September 2022 possible national rail strike. Links and notes for ep. 440 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/AFD-Ep-440-Links-and-Notes-Railroad-Labor-feat-Justin-from-WTYPP.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Sept 18, 2022 – Railroad Labor (feat. Justin from WTYPP) – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 440 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Due to the current (September 2022) threat of a US rail strike and in conjunction with a new episode forthcoming, we are unlocking from our Patreon our episode on the 1916 Adamson Act that created the eight-hour railroad work day and the Supreme Court ruling on it that seems to … Read more
The post [Unlocked] Apr 13, 2021 – The Adamson Act – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 365 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Nate returns to ask about Bill’s recent delegation trip to Cuba and to discuss the urgent need to end the decades-long US economic blockade there.
The post [Bonus] Sept 11, 2022 – Bill’s Cuba Trip – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 439 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Bill and Rachel learn what asphalt is and how failed Civil War General William Woods Averell became an asphalt paving magnate by the end of the 19th century. Links and notes for ep. 363 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Bonus-AFD-Ep-363-Links-and-Notes-General-Averells-Asphalt-Empire.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Apr 6, 2021 – General Averell’s Asphalt Empire – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 363 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel look at the history of industrialization of nail fastener production in the United States and its profound effects on the economy, and then talk about nail guns. Links and notes for ep. 438 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/AFD-Ep-438-Links-and-Notes-The-Industrial-Nail-and-Nail-Guns.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Aug 21, 2022 – Industrial Nails and Nail Guns – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 438 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel look at the intersection of modern, Second Industrial Revolution cities and the old scourge of urban fires through the lens of the Great Boston Fire of 1872. Links and notes for ep. 437 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/AFD-Ep-437-Links-and-Notes-Fire-Alarm-Telegraphy-and-the-Great-Boston-Fire-of-1872.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Aug 14, 2022 – Fire Alarm Telegraphy and the Great Boston Fire of 1872 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 437 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Rachel presents a very short bonus episode on the history and science of the kitty litter industry. Source article: https://cen.acs.org/articles/82/i17/KITTY-LITTER.html (Theme music by Stunt Bird.)
The post [Unlocked] June 29, 2022 – The Kitty Litter Industry – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 432 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Fish Cops at 151 – A fun mini-episode. Find out why the US government had fish cops whipping around the ocean in fast boats arresting Canadians. (Links/notes.) Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Feb 9, 1871 – The US Fish Commission – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 412 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
On the 50th anniversary of the 1972 revelation of the unethical Tuskegee Syphilis Experiments begun in 1932, Bill and Rachel look back at the huge national push against syphilis in the 1930s United States (before penicillin) and the many strange effects of that campaign. Links and notes for ep. 436 … Read more
The post July 25, 2022 – The 1930s Syphilis Campaign – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 436 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
60 years ago this week, on July 23, 1962, President Kennedy addressed the US and Europe simultaneously by video via a Telstar satellite link. As with the transatlantic telegraph cable about a century before, it was a major development. Links and notes for ep. 435 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/AFD-Ep-435-Links-and-Notes-Telstar.pdf Intro music by … Read more
The post July 17, 2022 – Telstar – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 435 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel explore how Western Union went from the first nationwide US telegraph monopoly to putting the first US commercial communication satellite into space and becoming the global remittance leader. Links and notes for ep. 434 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/AFD-Ep-434-Links-and-Notes-Western-Union.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird. Special outro cited in notes.
The post July 10, 2022 – Western Union – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 434 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel explore the settler-colonial origins and influences of American lotteries and discuss why they were eventually banned and then brought back. Links and notes for ep. 433 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/AFD-Ep-433-Links-and-Notes-State-Lotteries.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post July 3, 2022 – State Lotteries – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 433 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel look at the development of the modern elevator from the 1850s onward and debate its effects on the American city in comparison to streetcars, electrification, and automobiles. Links and notes for ep. 431 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AFD-Ep-431-Links-and-Notes-Modern-Elevators.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post June 26, 2022 – Modern Elevators – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 431 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
On June 15, 1990, the LAPD violently smashed up a peaceful march by SEIU janitors in Los Angeles who were trying to grow their membership via new contracts with outsource cleaning service companies. Bill and Rachel discuss. Links and notes for ep. 430 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AFD-Ep-430-Links-and-Notes-Justice-for-Janitors-LA-1990.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post June 20, 2022 – Justice For Janitors LA 1990 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 430 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel talks about what the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA) achieved and how the United States arrived there in the first place. Links and notes for ep. 429 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AFD-Ep-429-Links-and-Notes-Road-to-OSHA.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post June 12, 2022 – Road to OSHA – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 429 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel managed to add a third fascinating hour-plus of material on containerization, looking at present-day supply chain vulnerabilities, the rise of container freeports, product waste, and Soviet container history. Links and notes for ep. 428 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/AFD-Ep-428-Links-and-Notes-Containerization-Part-3-Bonus-on-Shipping-Containers.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post June 5, 2022 – Containerization (Part 3) – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 428 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel continue the history of containerization with a look at the mature industry that emerged out of the 1970s and soon revolutionized global manufacturing supply chains, with sweeping and ruinous effects. Links and notes for ep. 427 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/AFD-Ep-427-Links-and-Notes-Containerization-Part-2-Shipping-Containers.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 22, 2022 – Containerization (Part 2) – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 427 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Originally seen as a marginal innovation on existing shipping, containerization ended up revolutionizing the global economy and destroying many local economies. This resulted directly from (and enabled) the US war in Vietnam. (Bill and Rachel.) Links and notes for ep. 426 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/AFD-Ep-426-Links-and-Notes-Containerization-Part-1-Shipping-Containers.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 15, 2022 – Containerization (Part 1) – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 426 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A quick episode on hard hats from Bill and Rachel: It wasn’t until after World War I that standardized, tactical equipment for the prevention of workplace noggin bonking came into existence and use. Links and notes for ep. 425 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/AFD-Ep-425-Links-and-Notes-Hard-Hats.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post May 8, 2022 – Hard Hats – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 425 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Patrick from “Conspiracy You Can Believe In” returns to the show to talk with Bill about the Amnesty Act from 150 years ago this month that brought a younger generation of ex-Confederates back into elected office during Reconstruction. Links and notes for ep. 424 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/AFD-Ep-424-Links-and-Notes-Amnesty-Act-of-1872.pdf Theme music by Stunt … Read more
The post May 1872 Amnesty Act – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 424 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A series on understanding the transition of the US economy in the Crisis of the 1970s: The episode on the 50th Anniversary of Panda Diplomacy and Nixon’s trip to China. (A Bill solo episode recorded April 23, 2022.) Subscribe to our Patreon. Links and notes (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/That-70s-Woe_-The-Problem-with-Pandas-Episode-3.pdf
The post [Bonus] That 70s Woe: The Problem With Pandas – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 423 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel continue the story of US electrification by looking at the 1930s New Deal programs to bring grid power to rural farms (and compare to what was going on in the Soviet Union at the same time). Links and notes for ep. 422 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/AFD-Ep-422-US-Rural-Electrification.pdf Theme music by … Read more
The post Apr 17, 2022 – US Rural Electrification – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 422 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel continue the story of US electrification with a look at the indelible role of electric streetcars in powering US cities almost overnight in the 1890s. Links and notes for ep. 421 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/AFD-Ep-421-Links-and-Notes-US-Urban-Electrification-and-Streetcars-Bill_Rachel-Recording-Apr-10-2022.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 10, 2022 – US Urban Electrification and Streetcars – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 421 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel finally start looking at the history of US electrification beginning with the early little battery systems and then moving into early electromagnetic dynamos. Links and notes for ep. 420 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/AFD-Ep-420-Links-and-Notes-From-Electrochemistry-to-Electromagnetism.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Apr 3, 2022 – From Electrochemistry to Electromagnetism – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 420 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel discuss the invention and economic legacy (and environmental consequences) of synthetic dye. Links and notes for ep. 419 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AFD-Ep-419-Links-and-Notes-Synthetic-Dyes.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Mar 28, 2022 – Synthetic Dye – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 419 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Biotechnology has been important to other US industries from the auto industry to medicine and agriculture, before eventually becoming its own industry, dominated by venture capitalists. Bill and Rachel. Links and notes for ep. 418 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AFD-Ep-418-Links-and-Notes-Fermentation-Biotechnology-and-Penicillin.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Mar 20, 2022 – The Start of Biotech – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 418 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel discuss a specific air brake technology from 1872 that eventually had profound effects on the US economy and rail labor safety, especially after a Progressive Era bill mandated it. Links and notes for ep. 417 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AFD-Ep-417-Links-and-Notes-Westinghouse-Air-Brakes.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Mar 15, 2022 – Westinghouse Air Brakes – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 417 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Air conditioning began as a process for controlling humidity in industrial factory processes before it became about cooler human comforts. But it was also a key part of the military-industrial complex. Bill and Rachel. Links and notes for Ep. 357 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AFD-Ep-357-Links-and-Notes-Early-Air-Conditioning.pdf Theme music by Stunt … Read more
The post [Unlocked] Mar 9, 2021 – Early Air Conditioning – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 357 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel and Bill discuss the history of US industrial cheese production from cream cheese and Kraft American cheese to US Government Cheese in the 1980s. Links and notes for Ep. 416 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AFD-Ep-416-Links-and-Notes-Industrial-Cheeses.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Feb 27, 2022 – Industrial Cheeses – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 416 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A series on understanding the transition of the US economy in the Crisis of the 1970s: The Price Controls episode. (A Bill solo episode recorded Feb 21, 2022.) Subscribe to our Patreon. Links and notes (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/That-70s-Woe_-The-Last-Price-Controls-Episode-2.pdf
The post [Bonus] That 70s Woe: The Last Price Controls – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 415 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The causes (and effects on the US publishing industry) of the International Copyright Act of 1891. Rachel and Bill. Links and notes for ep. 414 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AFD-Ep-414-Links-and-Notes-You-Wouldnt-Steal-a-Book-International-Copyright-Act-of-1891.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Feb 20, 2022 – You Wouldn’t Steal A Book – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 414 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The 19th century US economy and armed forces needed industrial production of explosives (and fertilizer), eventually reaching monopoly status, and in turn the economy and armed forces supported the overseas Guano empire necessary to obtain those materials. Links and notes for ep. 413 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AFD-Ep-413-Links-and-Notes-The-Explosives-Empire.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Feb 13, 2022 – An Explosives Empire – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 413 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
100 years ago today, the US, Britain, Japan, France, and Italy signed the Washington Naval Treaty. Intended to de-escalate a battleship arms race, it ended up marking the dawn of the aircraft carrier age, which makes it very relevant even now. Bill and Rachel. Links and notes for ep. 411 … Read more
The post Feb 6, 1922: The Washington Naval Treaty – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 411 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Bill and Rachel discuss syringes, morphine, laudanum, the American Civil War, “women’s problems,” and the ongoing debate among historians today about how to understand opiate use and addiction in the late 19th century United States. Links and notes for ep. 410 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/AFD-Ep-410-Links-and-Notes-Late-19th-Century-Opiates-in-the-US.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Jan 30, 2022 – Late 19th Century Opiates in the US – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 410 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Rachel and Bill discuss Agnes Smedley, an American journalist and activist who helped the Indian independence movement, Soviet intelligence, and the Chinese Communist forces. Links and notes for Ep. 409 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/AFD-Ep-409-Links-and-Notes-Agnes-Smedley.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Jan 23, 2022 – Agnes Smedley – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 409 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
This week Rachel and Bill look at some of the cultural and economic effects of the controversial “wartime” Mexican Bracero guest farm worker program that ended up lasting from 1942-1964. Links and notes for Ep. 408 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/AFD-Ep-408-Links-and-Notes-The-Bracero-Guest-Worker-Program.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Jan 16, 2022 – The Bracero Guest Worker Program – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 408 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
A potential series on understanding the transition of the US economy in the Crisis of the 1970s: The episode on foreign exchange, gold convertibility, and the Nixon Shock of August 15, 1971. (A Bill solo episode recorded Jan 12, 2022.) Links and notes (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Bonus-AFD-Ep-407-Links-and-Notes-That-70s-Woe_-Nixons-Gold.pdf
The post [Bonus] That 70s Woe: Nixon’s Gold – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 407 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
50 years ago, in January 1972, the US space shuttle program moved forward and humanity passed the top of the arc of manned spaceflight and began its descent away from the dream of the 1860s to the 1960s. Bill and Rachel. Notes and links for Ep. 406 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/AFD-Ep-406-Links-and-Notes-Critical-Space-Theory_-The-Arc-of-Spaceflight-Ambitions.pdf Theme … Read more
The post Jan 9, 2022 – Critical Space Theory – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 406 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: Bill and Rachel recap some developments of 50 years ago in 1971: anti-smoking campaigns; the launch of Starbucks, Southwest, Amtrak, and Disney World; desegregation busing; special education laws; the War on Drugs; a new voting age; the first e-book; and more. Links and notes for Ep. 405 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/AFD-Ep-405-Links-and-Notes-1971-Recap.pdf … Read more
The post Dec 26, 2021 – 1971 Recap – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 405 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: Bill and Rachel discuss the era of newsreels from 1908 to the 1950s and the early plastic technology that made them possible. Links and notes for Ep. 404 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/AFD-Ep-404-Links-and-Notes-Nitrocellulose-and-Newsreels.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 19, 2021 – Nitrocellulose and Newsreels – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 404 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: PVC is a plastic all around us today, shaping our lives and the built environment. This week’s episode from Bill and Rachel is about that. Links and notes for Ep. 403 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/AFD-Ep-403-Links-and-Notes-Vinyl-PVC.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Dec 13, 2021 – Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 403 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: A convergence of auto loans, reorganized home mortgages, and falling materials costs by 1910 launched the vast neighborhoods of durable bungalow single-family homes that brought white industrial workers into the American middle class and political power. (Bill and Rachel) Links and notes for Ep. 402 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/AFD-Ep-402-Links-and-Notes-Bungalows-Workers-Cottages.pdf Theme music … Read more
The post Dec 5, 2021 – The Bungalow Economy – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 402 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: Bill and Rachel discuss the origins of the National Flood Insurance Program and its consequences and then examine a new financialization scheme in disaster relief money. Links and notes for Ep. 401 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/AFD-Ep-401-Links-and-Notes-National-Flood-Insurance-Program.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Nov 28, 2021 – National Flood Insurance – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 401 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: 100 years ago this week, on November 23, 1921, the first US government attempt at a modest social welfare program (focused on maternal and infant health) became law. Reactionary forces unraveled it by 1929, but it was influential regardless. Bill and Rachel discuss. Links and notes for Ep. 400 … Read more
The post November 1921: Sheppard-Towner Act – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 400 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Bill and Rachel discuss turn-of-the-century Toledo mayor and progressive industrialist Samuel Milton “Golden Rule” Jones and reflect on the limitations of his popular but unusual brand of Christian socialism made possible by his oil money. (New episodes return soon!) Links and Notes for Ep. 359 (PDF): … Read more
The post [Unlocked] Mar 15, 2021 – Samuel Milton Golden Rule Jones – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 359 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon since the strikes are continuing: There are mine strikes in Alabama right now. Bill and Rachel look back at the racially-integrated Alabama coal strikes of 1908 and 1920. Links and notes for Ep. 383 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Bonus-AFD-Ep-383-Links-and-Notes-Racially-Integrated-Alabama-Mine-Strikes-of-1908-1920.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] June 15, 2021 – Alabama Coal Strikes of 1908 and 1920 – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 383 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon: Bill and Rachel examine the evolution of the US timber industry during the Second Industrial Revolution away from raw material supply to mass-produced, manufactured forest products. Links and notes for Ep. 369 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Bonus-AFD-EP-369-Links-and-Notes-Forest-Products.pdf Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Apr 27, 2021 – Forest Products – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 369 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked Patreon episode: In the early 19th century, the New England region of the United States emerged as the global leader of a lucrative new industry that would change the world: Harvesting and transporting ice from ponds and rivers. Nate and Bill discuss. Links and notes for Ep. 351 (PDF): … Read more
The post [Unlocked] Feb 17, 2021 – The Natural Ice Trade – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 351 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The 5th part of our miniseries on money itself during the 2nd Industrial Revolution in the US. Bill and Rachel look at the ideology of consumer finance, the rise of home and auto loans, and how the seeds of the 21st century financialization were planted long ago.
Links and notes for Ep. 399 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/American-Money-Part-V_-Epilogue-Personal-Finance-Arsenal-For-Democracy-Ep-399.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post American Money, Part V: Epilogue – Personal Finance – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 399 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The 4th part of our miniseries on money itself during the 2nd Industrial Revolution in the US. Bill and Rachel look at the political battles over silver coinage and the gold standard and why neither position makes sense in hindsight.
Links and noted for Ep. 398 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/American-Money-Part-IV_-The-Cross-of-Gold-Arsenal-For-Democracy-Ep-398.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post American Money, Part IV: The Cross of Gold – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 398 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The 3rd part of our miniseries on money itself during the 2nd Industrial Revolution in the US. Bill, Rachel, and Kelley look at the initial emergence of proto-consumer credit as well as sketchy and predatory small loans in industrial cities.
Links and notes for Ep. 397 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/American-Money-Part-III_-Store-Credit-Installments-and-Shadow-Lending-Arsenal-For-Democracy-Ep-397.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post American Money, Part III: Store Credit, Installments, and Shadow Lending – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 397 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
The first episode of our miniseries on money itself during the Second Industrial Revolution in the United States. Bill and Rachel pose philosophical questions on the nature of money and look at changes in US monetary policy from the Antebellum period through 1876.
Links and notes for Ep. 396 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/American-Money-Parts-I-and-II_-Antebellum-Through-Reconstruction-Arsenal-For-Democracy-Ep-396.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post American Money, Parts I and II: Antebellum Through Reconstruction – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 396 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
[Unlocked] During WWI, a Chicago ad man pitched the Bureau of Investigation on a volunteer secret police, which grew to nearly 300,000 unpaid agents and foreshadowed strategies of the later US intelligence state. Friend of the show Ben aka @housetrotter joins Bill and Rachel to discuss.
Links and notes for Ep. 353 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bonus-AFD-Ep-353-Links-and-Notes-The-American-Protective-League-feat-Housetrotter.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] Feb 23, 2021 – The American Protective League feat. @housetrotter – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 353 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
In September 1921, the first fast food restaurant (White Castle) was launched, taking inspiration from the Hygiene Movement. Guest John Leavitt (@LeavittAlone) joins Bill, Kelley, and Rachel to talk about this and Automats and to imagine a different future for restaurants.
Links and notes for Ep. 395 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/AFD-Ep-395-Links-and-Notes-September-1921_-Fast-Food-White-Castle-with-guest-John-Leavitt.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Sept 5, 2021 – Fast Food and Automats – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 395 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: One hundred years ago this week, the Battle of Blair Mountain was in full swing in West Virginia as thousands of heavily armed union miners fought dug-in pro-owner militias. Bill and Rachel examine.
Links and notes for Ep. 394 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AFD-Ep-394-Links-and-Notes-August-1921-Centennial-Battle-of-Blair-Mountain.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post August 1921: The Battle of Blair Mountain – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 394 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: Bill, Kelley, and Rachel discuss Franklin D. Roosevelt’s career before his paralysis in August 1921 and how he dealt with his lifelong disability thereafter.
Links and notes for Ep. 393: http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AFD-Ep-393-Links-and-Notes-August-1921-FDR-becomes-paralyzed.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post August 1921: FDR Becomes Paralyzed – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 393 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Unlocked from our Patreon for a vacation week. Bill and Rachel found the most amazing, still-active web 1.0 history website, and now we can tell you all about the sweeping implications of the transatlantic telegraph cable of 1866. (Originally released April 2021.)
Links and notes for Ep. 367 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Bonus-AFD-Ep-367-Links-and-Notes-The-Transatlantic-Telegraph-Cable.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post [Unlocked] The Transatlantic Telegraph Cable – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 367 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: Life in the big American city of the 19th century included an endless sea of horses, and it was not a very pleasant situation for anyone, including the horses. Bill, Rachel, and Kelley explore.
Notes and links for Ep. 392 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AFD-Ep-392-Links-and-Notes-Horse-Power.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Aug 8, 2021 – Horse Power – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 392 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: It took a while to figure out how to mass-produce glassware, given the complexity of it, but that had profound implications on the lives of American consumers and workers. Bill, Kelley, and Rachel discuss. (This is the Mason Jars episode, among other things.)
Links and notes for Ep. 391 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AFD-Ep-391-Links-and-Notes-Industrialization-of-Glassware.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post Aug 1, 2021 – Industrialization of Glassware – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 391 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: In 1918, against better judgment and with few achievable goals, the US intervened militarily in the Russian Civil War in Siberia and Archangel. Almost immediately, everyone knew it was a disaster. Bill, Kelley, and Rachel examine it.
Links and notes for Ep. 390 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/AFD-Ep-390-Links-and-Notes-US-Intervention-in-the-Russian-Civil-War.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post July 25, 2021 – The US Intervention in the Russian Civil War – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 390 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: For a brief moment in time, during the transition from the first to the second industrial revolution, it looked like pneumatic tubes might be the next wave of the future. Bill, Kelley, and Rachel discuss.
Notes and links for Ep. 389 (PDF): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/AFD-Ep-389-Links-and-Notes-Pneumatic-Tubes.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post July 18, 2021 – Pneumatic Tubes – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 389 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.
Description: One hundred years ago this week, Sacco and Vanzetti were unjustly convicted on first-degree murder charges in Massachusetts. We discuss the centennial and re-air part of a 2019 episode exploring the misunderstood context of Italian-American anarchism in 1921.
Links and notes (Ep. 388): http://arsenalfordemocracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/AFD-Ep-388-Links-and-Notes-Sacco-Vanzetti-2nd-Conviction-Centennial.pdf
Theme music by Stunt Bird.
The post July 2021 – Sacco and Vanzetti Conviction Centennial – Arsenal For Democracy Ep. 388 appeared first on Arsenal For Democracy.