The Professor Liberty Podcast

Ep#117 War is a Racket

In this Veterans Day episode, Mr. Palumbo explores General Smedley Butler's 1935 pamphlet "War Is a Racket", where Butler exposes how wars benefit arms dealers and corporations, not the soldiers who fight them. The episode also reflects on Eisenhower’s warning about the military-industrial complex, highlighting its continued relevance. Mr. Palumbo argues that to truly honor veterans, we must end the cycle of endless wars that serve the few at the expense of many.

Ep# 116 Emotional Democracy

In this episode of the Professor Liberty Podcast called "Emotional Democracy," the hosts tackle the idea of the cult of personality in politics. Our favorite social studies teacher explores how people often vote based on feelings—either loving or hating a candidate—rather than focusing on what those candidates actually do or their voting records. It’s a conversation about the risks of letting emotions drive our choices, which can lead to unfit leaders getting into power. The episode wraps up with a reminder for listeners to dig deeper and really research candidates, encouraging everyone to look beyond the hype and make informed choices.

Ep#115 Hail, Columbia!

In this episode, we dive into the rich history of Columbia, a personification of the United States that predates iconic figures like Uncle Sam and Lady Liberty. We explore Columbia’s origins, tracing her roots back to the age of exploration and the ideals of American nationalism. Named after Christopher Columbus, Columbia symbolizes liberty, democracy, and the emerging American identity. As the 18th century unfolded, intellectuals and poets began to adopt her as a national emblem, highlighting her connection to ideals of freedom and self-governance.

Ep# 114 What is Propaganda?

In this episode, Mr. Palumbo dives into the fascinating world of propaganda, starting with its roots in ancient civilizations and bringing us all the way to today’s digital landscape. We break down what propaganda really is—a method of shaping how people think and act—while pointing out some key traits, like its emotional pull and the way it picks and chooses facts.

Ep#113 Rome, Athens and the Constitution

On this special Saturday edition of the Professor Liberty Podcast we dive into the historical roots of political power and the dangers of unchecked authority. By examining the rise of tyrants in ancient Greece and Rome, we uncover timeless lessons about the fragility of democracy and the importance of maintaining a balance of power. The American framers of the US Constitution were actually more inspired by the Roman republican system than Athenian democracy. The Romans had a complex system of checks and balances, which they thought was a better way to prevent tyranny. 

Ep # 112 Important Battles: Stalingrad

 
Buckle up history buffs as we continue our series on important battles with the scorched earth hellscape that was the Battle of Stalingrad.  After Hitler's failed attempt to conquer Russia with Operation Barbarossa, the Nazis launched Operation Blau to capture Soviet oil fields. But there was a roadblock in their path: Stalingrad, a city named after the iron-fisted Joseph Stalin himself. Taking it would be a propaganda victory the Nazis craved, and the Soviets were determined not to let that happen. Stalingrad is considered a pivotal moment World War II that sent the Germans in perpetual retreat and became the bloodiest conflict not just of the war, but in all human history. 

Ep #111 Independence From What?

On today's episode Mr. Palumbo gives a brief summary of the elements surrounding the American Revolution. In one of the longest episodes of the Professor Liberty Podcast, our favorite obscure social studies teacher dives into multiple topics ranging from the Magna Carta to the Enlightenment. Explaining how the American Revolution began our host discusses history, political philosophy and taxes, all in order to find the answer to the question: independence from what? What are Americans celebrating on July 4th in the year 2024? 

Ep #110 Important Battles: Trafalgar

On this episode we continue our important battles series as we set sail on the high seas during the Napoleonic Wars. Sometimes in history one bold plan can change the world. Today we analyze Admiral Lord Nelson's actions at the Battle at Trafalgar. 

Ep #109 Important Battles: Thermopylae

Continuing with our "Important Battles" series our favorite obscure social studies teacher, Mr. Palumbo dives into ancient history with the Battle at Thermopylae. Looking into the key players, the geography and the lasting impact of this famous battle, you'll be screaming THIS IS SPARTA in no time. 

Ep# 108 Important Battles: Midway

What does code breaking, surprise attacks, and aircraft carriers have in common? They were all a curical component in the Battle of Midway (1942). We continue our series on important battles in history on today's episode.