A People’s History of the Civil War (Howard Zinn)

Union troops and flag on a battlefield illustrate a people's history of the Civil War in America

What contributed to the outbreak of the US Civil War? What role did racism play in both the military and society? With whom did American Indian tribes align themselves? The US Civil War was a devastating conflict. The poor suffered the most, with Free Blacks and escaped slaves playing a pivotal role despite facing racism in the North. American Indian tribes strategically aligned with different sides for territorial security and political advantage. Read more to get a people’s history of the Civil War, according to historian Howard Zinn.

Is Ring Safe? Why the Camera System Might Be Spying on You

A security camera spying on people on the street in a city, which is one of the biggest social issues in the world.

Is the Ring home security system exploiting your personal data and footage? Is Ring safe to use? In an episode of Last Podcast on the Left, contemporary issues are riffed upon with humor but not without depth. The podcast navigates through a current societal concern such as the Ring security system’s privacy and safety. Check out how the Last Podcast on the Left navigates these issues.

Bad Friends: Comedy, Anecdotes, and Poking Fun at Politics

A cartoon podcast setup with a microphone, computer, and laptop on a desk.

What are the most humorous moments from the Bad Friends podcast? How do Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee navigate political satire? The Bad Friends duo deftly tiptoes between the somber and the silly in a new episode. They embrace their unique ability to spin yarns that leave fans in stitches while simultaneously touching on history and the macabre. Keep reading for more insight on Bad Friends’s comedy moments.

Legislation for Online Safety for Kids Faces Obstacles

A child sitting on her bedroom floor recording a video on her phone for social media

What’s the holdup over legislation to bolster child safety online? What concerns do tech giants have about potential legislation? Despite growing outrage over tech giants’ failure to address child exploitation on social media platforms, federal legislation to tackle the issue has stalled in the US Senate for years. The delay has been caused by tech lobbyists, competing legislative priorities, and the challenge of balancing parental concerns with children’s rights. Below we’ll dive into what the opponents and advocates of legislation for online safety for kids say.

The Importance of Entertainment for Creativity and Inspiration

A flat screen television with nature on the screen, emphasizing the importance of entertainment.

What’s the importance of entertainment? What’s the “cinema of the mind?” The hosts of Last Podcast on the Left dive into the nature of entertainment in the episode, “Side Stories: Ham Hands.” Particularly, they show appreciation for personal creative thoughts—a theme resonating with reflective listeners. Let’s look at why entertainment has such a profound effect on people.

A People’s History of the Labor Movement in America

Workers at a factory in the early 20th century illustrate the history of labor movement in America

What’s the history of the labor movement in America? Why did they organize? What obstacles have they had to deal with? Howard Zinn explains that in the decades following the Civil War, the US industrialized at a rapid pace and became a global power—at the expense of American laborers. He explores the consequences of industrialization, how laborers resisted them, and the challenges the labor movement faced. Continue reading to learn about the labor movement in America, according to A People’s History of the United States.

Serhiy Prytula & Ukrainian Civilians Are Helping Fund the War

Serhiy Prytula holding a Russian drone captured by Ukrainian forces

Who’s Serhiy Prytula? How does his personal journey symbolize Ukrainian civilians as a whole? An episode of The Daily podcast explored Serhiy Prytula’s role in Ukraine’s drone campaign, showcasing diverse civilian support in the war against Russia. From fundraising success to strategic impact, Prytula’s journey embodies unity and strength—and it’s helping shape the conflict’s narrative. Keep reading for a summary of the episode, along with some helpful context and additional perspectives.

A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn: Overview

young man reading a book outside in a large city

How well do you know American history? Have you been exposed to all sides of it? A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn provides a bottom-up view of American history focusing on Indigenous people, Black Americans, women, laborers, and activists. In doing so, he shares an alternative perspective of significant events, themes, and historical trends in American history. Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of this major undertaking.

Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee’s Halloween Rituals (Bad Friends)

A child performing a Halloween ritual while holding a bucket dressed in a Halloween costume on the front porch.

What are common Halloween rituals? How is Halloween celebrated differently in certain cultures? In an episode of Bad Friends, Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee dive into the different Halloween traditions they had growing up. Their discussion includes a look at other cultures that don’t necessarily celebrate Halloween with great importance.  Let’s look at Santino and Lee’s interpretation of Halloween during their respective childhoods.