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American Experience Presents — History
American Experience Presents

“American Experience Presents” brings a fresh take on the iconic stories told on TV’s most-watched history series. This 10-episode anthology launches with three powerful narratives: Joseph McCarthy, whose anti-communist crusade terrorized 1950s America; media titan William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper mogul whose empire shaped public opinion for decades; and Sgt. Isaac Woodard, the decorated World War II veteran whose brutal assault by police sparked a civil rights awakening. This new GBH podcast examines how these three transformative figures shaped pivotal moments in 20th century America, bringing their stories to life for a new generation of listeners.

Connect with American Experience on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads and YouTube.

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Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriters: Galen Beebe and Andrew Newman

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrators: James Edwards and Cameo George

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Copyright: ©2024 WGBH Educational Foundation

Latest Episodes:

Introducing: William Randolph Hearst Oct 30, 2024

American newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst whose immense wealth and power transformed the media's role in politics and society. In this series, we delve into Hearst's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a media titan, revealing how his prodigious appetites and control over vast media holdings allowed him to shape public opinion and influence major events.

Hearst’s innovative and often controversial approach to journalism, known as "yellow journalism," redefined the boundaries of news reporting and had a profound impact on American culture. Discover how his media empire not only sensationalized stories but also played a critical role in political campaigns and public perception during pivotal moments in history.

Through expert interviews, rare archival audio, and compelling storytelling, this series uncovers the legacy of a man who wielded the power of the press with remarkable skill. Join host James Edwards for this fascinating account of William Randolph Hearst, a figure whose influence continues to resonate in today's media landscape.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads

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Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Part 3: Downfall Oct 23, 2024

At the height of his power, Senator Joseph McCarthy seemed unstoppable. However, his downfall would come from an unexpected place—the U.S. Army. Follow the dramatic escalation of McCarthy's anti-communist campaign in 1953 and how his crusade collided with the military, leading to televised hearings that captivated the nation. The narrative is further intensified by Edward R. Murrow's iconic broadcast, in which he critiques McCarthy's methods, marking a significant shift in public perception. The chaotic political landscape showcases the interplay of power, media, and accountability, marking the beginning of the end for one of the most controversial figures in American political history.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads

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Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Part 2: Chasing the Lie Oct 16, 2024

As Cold War fears grip 1950s America, McCarthy weaponizes accusations of communist infiltration, rocketing from obscurity to national prominence. Discover how one man's relentless pursuit of a lie transforms into a nationwide witch hunt. Through rare audio and firsthand accounts, experience McCarthy's audacious tactics unfold - from smearing political opponents to interrogating alleged subversives in government and even public libraries.

Experience the frenzy of televised hearings and flying subpoenas that left careers in ruins. Hear from those who faced McCarthy's wrath, forced to choose between principles and survival. But as the senator's power grows, so do the seeds of his undoing.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads

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Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Part 1: The Birth of McCarthyism Oct 16, 2024

Joseph McCarthy grew up on a Wisconsin farm where he learned the value of hard work. After serving in World War II, McCarthy capitalized on his military service to launch a successful Senate campaign. As the Cold War intensifies, McCarthy seizes the opportunity to exploit public fears of communism, framing himself as a defender of American democracy. Discover how his rise coincides with a national climate of paranoia, setting the stage for the demagoguery that would define his career. Explore the ambition, fear, and complexities of power, as McCarthy's story unfolds against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its identity and values.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads

-----------------------

Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

Introducing: Joseph McCarthy Oct 02, 2024

In 1950, an obscure senator from Wisconsin stood before a small crowd in Wheeling, West Virginia, and ignited a firestorm that would change American politics forever. With a single speech, Joseph McCarthy thrust himself into the national spotlight, brandishing accusations of Communist infiltration at the highest levels of government. But was there any truth to his claims?

Discover the origins of McCarthyism in this gripping podcast series, American Experience Presents. From McCarthy's humble beginnings on a Wisconsin farm to his meteoric rise in Washington, follow the journey of a man whose name would become synonymous with political fearmongering.

Through rare archival audio, expert insights, and compelling storytelling, join host James Edwards as we uncover the story of a man who wielded power through fear, only to be undone by his own hubris. Don't miss this riveting account of a senator whose name became synonymous with fear and suspicion, and whose legacy still echoes in today's political landscape.

Learn more about American Experience

Follow the show on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads

-------------------------------------

Credits:

Lead Producer: Devin Maverick Robins

Associate Producer: Meiqian He

Scriptwriter: Galen Beebe

Story Editor: Devin Maverick Robins

Editorial Advisor: John Bredar

Sound Designer: Jack Pombriant

Narrator: James Edwards

Executive Producer: Cameo George

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