Rendezvous With History

The History of Humanitarian Aid with Dr. Julia Irwin

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:57:58 -0300

Dr. Julia Irwin joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss her book: Catastrophic Diplomacy: US Foreign Disaster Assistance in the American Century. Irwin lays out the political motivations that shaped international disaster relief and dives into the history of USAID, the American Red Cross, and US military interventions.

The Minds Moving MAGA with Dr. Laura Field

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:00:00 -0300

Dr. Laura K. Field joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss her book, Furious Minds: The Making of the MAGA New Right. The conversation dives into who has a claim to Western Civilization, the overrepresentation of Catholic Integralists and postliberals in government, and how the Oresteia Trilogy inspired the book title. Field makes a strong case for hidden, deep roots that inform MAGA goals.

New Start and the History of Nuclear Arms Control with Dr. James Graham Wilson

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:54:12 -0400

Dr. James Graham Wilson joins Dr. Anthony Eames to discuss the ending of New START. The conversation explores the historical evolution of arms control, how technological developments impact negotiations, and the current geopolitical landscape.

Truman and the Bomb with Alex Wellerstein

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:23:49 -0400

Professor Alex Wellerstein joins to discuss his book, 'The Most Awful Responsibility,' which challenges conventional narratives about the use of atomic bombs on Japanese cities. Wellerstein argues that President Truman never decided whether to use the atomic bomb. The decision Truman actually made was regarding the bomb's target, where he misunderstood the cost to civilian lives. This episode explores the blind spots and humanity that impact Presidential decision making.

Policing, Politics, and Power: Rethinking the U.S.–Mexico Drug War with Dr. Aileen Teague

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 19:13:00 -0400

Host Dr. Anthony Eames welcomes Dr. Aileen Teague to discuss her landmark study, Policing on Drugs: The United States, Mexico, and the Origins of the Modern Drug War, 1969–2000. Teague examines the intertwined histories of U.S. supply-control strategies, PRI-era political violence, cross-border agency dynamics, and the profound effects of NAFTA and economic crisis on drug trafficking routes. This episode offers a nuanced, archival-driven reassessment of how policy, geopolitics, and local histories shaped the drug war we confront today.

Daniel Flynn on the Forgotten Architect of Conservatism

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:11:48 -0400

In this episode, host Anthony Eames interviews Daniel Flynn about his book 'The Man Who Invented Conservatism,' which explores the life and ideas of Frank Meyer, a pivotal figure in the American conservative movement. The conversation delves into Meyer's concept of fusionism, his early life, his transition from communism to conservatism, and his influential role at the National Review. Flynn highlights Meyer's relationships with key figures and his lasting impact on American political thought, particularly through his connections with prominent politicians like Goldwater and President Reagan.

Learning from the Past: Frank Gavin on History’s Modern Role

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:41:07 -0400

In this conversation, Professor Frank Gavin discusses the critical role of historical thinking in contemporary society, addressing its failings in informing foreign policy and civic unity. He emphasizes the importance of understanding history's methodology and the lessons learned from past events, particularly in the context of the global war on terror. Gavin also explores the implications of unprecedented technological changes and the necessity of a historical checklist for decision-making. The discussion concludes with insights on the current need for historical thinking in addressing modern challenges.

The People’s Historian: Alexis Coe on Making American History Personal

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:04:53 -0400

In this engaging conversation, Anthony Eames speaks with Alexis Coe, a presidential historian and columnist for the New York Times, about her unique role in curating American history for modern readers. They explore the intersection of public and academic history, the personal lives of presidents, and the importance of authenticity in leadership. The discussion also touches on the evolution of the White House, the significance of presidential legacies, and the upcoming America 250 celebrations, highlighting the need for history to resonate with contemporary audiences.

History and Politics of Government Shutdowns

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:34:32 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous with History, Anthony Eames sits down with Andrew Rudavelige to discuss the intricacies of government shutdowns and the pivotal role of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Rudavelige, a professor and expert on government operations, explains the historical evolution of the OMB, highlighting its critical function in managing fiscal policies and its influence during shutdowns. They discuss the agency's discretionary power in determining essential services and employees, the impact of multi-year appropriations, and the political dynamics that often accompany shutdowns. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of executive authority and the balance of power between Congress and the presidency.

Choosing Defeat: Why America Lost in Afghanistan with Paul Miller

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous with History, Anthony Eames sits down with Paul Miller to discuss his new book, "Choosing Defeat: The 20-Year Saga of How America Lost Afghanistan." They delve into the complexities of the Afghanistan war, discussing the cultural perceptions, strategic missteps, and bureaucratic challenges that shaped the conflict. They take a look back at presidential decision-making across successive administrations during the Afghanistan war. Anthony and Paul discuss what went right? And what went wrong? Paul also emphasizes the importance of character and wisdom in leadership, aiming to inspire future policymakers to learn from past mistakes. The discussion highlights the intricate interplay between cultural narratives and policy decisions, offering a nuanced perspective on a pivotal chapter in American history.

Navigating U.S.-Russia Relations: The Legacy of Strobe Talbot with Dr. Stephan Kieninger

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Stephan Kieninger who is a Global Fellow at the Wilson Center and the author of the book entitled, Securing Peace in Europe. Strobe Talbott, NATO, and Russia after the Cold War. They discuss Strobe Talbot’s background as a journalist, his transition to the State Department under President Clinton, and his influence on critical foreign policy decisions, including NATO expansion and the Kosovo conflict. Dr. Kieninger shares insights into Talbot’s early assessments of Vladimir Putin and the challenges faced in U.S.-Russia relations. The conversation concludes with reflections on the need for further research into NATO’s role and the complexities of post-Cold War security dynamics.

Understanding the Left’s Fractured Identity with Kevin M. Schultz

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellow Dr. Joshua Tait sits down with Professor Kevin M. Schultz who is the Chair of the Department of History at the University of Illinois-Chicago and the author of the book entitled, “Why Everyone Hates White Liberals (Including White Liberals).” The discussion explores the historical context of liberalism, its evolution, and the various perceptions and critiques of white liberals from different political perspectives. Prof. Schultz discusses the polarization in American politics, the liberal order, and the metaphorical assassination of liberalism, highlighting the multifaceted attacks it faces from both the right and the left.

Reaganomics Unveiled: The Economic Revolution

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Brian Domitrovic who serves as the Richard S. Strong Scholar at The Lafer Center. The conversation delves into the economic policies of Ronald Reagan, exploring the foundational principles of Reaganomics, including tax cuts, free trade, and monetary policy. The discussion highlights key events such as Proposition 13, the challenges faced during the 1982 recession, and the role of the dollar in shaping economic outcomes. The speakers also debate the contributions of Paul Volcker and Reagan in addressing inflation and economic recovery. This conversation delves into the economic policies of Ronald Reagan, focusing on the pivotal years of 1982 and 1986. The discussion highlights the significant tax cuts and their impact on inflation, economic growth, and the national debt.

Rhetoric and Reality: The Power of Presidential Words with William Haldeman

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with William Haldeman who is the Vice Chancellor and Chief Strategy Officer at the University of Pittsburgh, and the author of “Meeting the Moment: Inspiring Presidential Leadership that Transformed America.” They discuss his experiences and research into the qualities that define successful presidents, such as judgment, ingenuity, courage, and optimism. The dialogue delves into the significance of presidential rhetoric and the impact of key speeches throughout American history. Haldeman also reflects on the balance between instinct and advice in leadership, the ingenuity of Thomas Jefferson, and the lessons learned from presidential failures, emphasizing the importance of communication in navigating crises and opportunities.

Unearthing History: The Role of Minerals in U.S. Expansion with Dr. Megan Black

Sun, 25 May 2025 09:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Megan Black who is an Associate Professor of History at MIT. They discuss the historical context of mineral exploration in the United States, tracing its roots from the early Republic through to contemporary issues surrounding strategic minerals. Professor Black highlights the tension between civilian and military power in U.S. expansion, the significance of Point Four programs in shaping mineral agendas, and the evolution of strategic minerals over time. The discussion also delves into technological innovations in mineral extraction and the relationship between government and private industry.

A Cold War Analogy with Michael Brenes

Sun, 04 May 2025 10:30:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Michael Brenes who is Co-Director of the Brady-Johnson Program in Grand Strategy and Lecturer in History at Yale University. They discuss the implications of using the Cold War analogy in contemporary foreign policy, particularly regarding the US-China relationship. They explore the historical context of the Cold War, its impacts on domestic and international affairs, and the necessity for a recalibrated approach to foreign policy in a multipolar world. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of global dynamics and the need for collaboration rather than confrontation.

Unlocking the Legacy of Milton Friedman with Dr. Jennifer Burns

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Jennifer Burns who is an Associate Professor of History at Stanford University. They explore explore the life and legacy of Milton Friedman, a pivotal figure in economics and political thought. They discuss Friedman’s influence on conservatism, his role in the Chicago School of Economics, and the misunderstandings surrounding his ideas. The conversation also touches on the relevance of Friedman’s work in today’s economic landscape, particularly in light of recent inflationary trends. Dr. Burns emphasizes the importance of understanding Friedman not just as a conservative economist but as a complex thinker whose ideas have shaped both liberal and conservative thought.

The Legacy of McKinley in Modern Politics with Robert Merry

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Robert Merry who is a publishing executive and New York Times Best Selling Author. Mr. Merry authored the book, “President McKinley; Architect of the American Century.” They explore President McKinley’s role as a pivotal figure in American history, his political strategies, and how his presidency shaped the modern executive office. The discussion also touches on McKinley’s protectionist policies, his approach to foreign relations, particularly with China, and how contemporary figures like President Donald Trump interpret McKinley’s legacy.

The Evolution of Presidential Metaphors with Professor Randall Fowler

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:58:09 -0400

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Professor Randall Fowler who is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Sociology at Abilene Christian University. They discuss his book “Securing the Prize: Presidential Metaphor and US Intervention in the Persian Gulf” which explores the evolution of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East through the lens of political rhetoric and public opinion. The discussion covers the historical context of American perceptions of the Middle East, the use of metaphors by U.S. presidents, and the implications of these metaphors on policy decisions. Fowler emphasizes the importance of understanding how language shapes public perception and policy, particularly in relation to the Middle East’s geopolitical significance.

Kennedy’s Evolution: A Leader in Progress with Professor Mark White

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Professor Mark White who is a Professor of History at Queen Mary University of London. They discuss his book on John F. Kennedy entitled, “Icon, Libertine, Leader: The Life and Presidency of John F. Kennedy”, and explore the complexities of Kennedy’s presidency, the myth of Camelot, his growth as a leader, and the impact of his domestic and foreign policies. Professor White emphasizes Kennedy’s evolution in response to significant events, his relationships with key political figures, and the implications of his private life on his public image. The discussion also speculates on what might have happened had Kennedy lived beyond 1963, particularly regarding civil rights and Vietnam.

Political Parties and Legacies with Dr. Steven Hayward

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Steven Hayward who is the Edward L. Gaylord Visiting Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine University . They discuss discusses the evolution of political eras in America, focusing on the indicators of political transition, the dynamics within political parties after electoral losses, and the shifting coalitions within the Republican Party. He reflects on the legacy of Ronald Reagan and the contrasting interpretations of his impact on modern politics, particularly in relation to Donald Trump.

Predicting Presidential Elections with Dr. Allan Lichtman

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Allan Lichtman who is a distinguished professor of history at American University, and the creator of the ‘Keys to the White House’ which has correctly predicted the outcomes of all US presidential elections since 1984. They discuss Dr. Lichtman’s process for predicting presidential elections, his track record dating back to the 1984 election of Reagan v. Mondale, and Dr. Lichtman’s prediction for Election 2024.

Presidential Power and PATCO with Dr. Andy Busch

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:50:10 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Andy Busch who is the Associate Director of the Institute of American Civics at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. They discuss Dr. Busch’s new book entitled, Ronald Reagan and the Firing of the Air Traffic Controllers, which covers the 1981 decision by President Reagan to fire over 12,000 members of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Association (PATCO) and decertify their union.

A Forgotten Founding Father with Dr. Lindsay M. Chervinsky

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Lindsay M. Chervinsky who is a presidential historian and the Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library. They discuss Dr. Chervinsky’s new book, “Making the Presidency John Adams and the Precedents That Forged the Republic.” The conversation focused on President Adam’s critical role in managing political fracture and factions in the early republic.

A Man For The Whole People

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Randall Woods who is a Distinguished Professor of History at the University of Arkansas. They discuss Dr. Woods’ new book entitled, “John Quincy Adams: A Man for the Whole People,” John Quincy Adams’ upbringing, his time in Europe, his role in the diplomacy of the early republic, and his time as Dean of the House.

The CIA, Hollywood, and History with Janelle Neises

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Janelle Neises who serves in the Office of Public Affairs of the Central Intelligence Agency. They discuss the CIA museum, its mission and purpose, and what goes into actually selecting and approving the exhibits and artifacts. They also chat about the CIA and its consultation on films and television like Jack Ryan, Argo, The Americans, and more.

America’s Cold Warrior with Dr. James Graham Wilson

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. James Graham Wilson who serves as a Supervisory Historian at the U.S. Department of State. They discuss Dr. Wilson’s new book entitled, “America’s Cold Warrior: Paul Nitze and National Security from Roosevelt to Reagan.” The discussion focuses on Nitze’s work with President Reagan during the nuclear treaty discussions of the 1980's.

The United States and the INF Treaty with Dr. Luke Griffith

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Luke Griffith who is a Professor of Government and History at New Mexico Junior College. They discuss his latest book entitled, Unraveling the Gray Area Problem. Professor Griffith examines the role of the United States in the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty, its impact on western security, and how it ultimately failed.

The Challenger Disaster with Adam Higginbotham

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with British Journalist and New York Times bestselling Author Adam Higginbotham. They discuss his latest book entitled, Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space. Mr. Higginbotham offers a dramatic and detailed accounting of the disaster and subsequent investigation. He also provides a powerful story telling of the lives of the 7 crew members up until the point of calamity.

Archiving American History with Hon. Colleen Shogan

Wed, 22 May 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Colleen Shogan who is the 11th Archivist of the United States. They discuss Dr. Shogan’s important role as the Archivist of the United States and the critical work she has to undertake to preserve and protect the history of the United States.

Economic Disruption & The Cold War with Dr. Michael De Groot

Wed, 01 May 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Professor Michael De Groot who is an Assistant Professor of International Studies at Indiana University Bloomington. They discuss his latest book entitled, Disruption: The Global Economic Shocks of the 1970s and the End of the Cold War. Professor De Groot outlines the global economic instability and cyclical shocks of the 1970s, and ties a direct line between the economic response to those shocks by the United States and the Soviet Union and how these responses led to the end of the Cold War.

The Contest Over National Security with Dr. Peter Roady

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Professor Peter Roady who is an Assistant Professor of History at the University of Utah. They discuss his latest book entitled, The Contest over National Security: FDR, Conservatives, and the Struggle to Claim the Most Powerful Phrase in American Politics. Professor Roady outlines the policy and political philosophy that guided FRD’s view of U.S. National Security not only militarily, but politically and economically. He also describes the conservative response to FDR’s national security and economic polices, and how this backlash has shaped U.S. National Security policy to this day.

Founding Partisans with Dr. H.W. Brands

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. H.W. Brands who is the Jack S. Blanton Sr. Chair in History at the University of Texas at Austin. They discuss his latest book entitled, Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics. Professor Brands recounts the trails and tribulations surrounding the early years of the U.S., the battles over the size and scope of the federal government and its power, and how the formation of parties, or factions, was inevitable.

FDR’s Vice President & Russian Collusion with Dr. Benn Steil

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0300

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Benn Steil who serves as a Senior Fellow and as the Director of International Economics at the Council on Foreign Relations. They discuss his latest book entitled, The World That Wasn’t: Henry Wallace and the Fate of the American Century. Dr. Steil recounts the story of FDR’s third-term Vice President Henry Wallace, his close ties to Communist Russia, and what America might look like if he ended up becoming President of the United States.

A Nuclear Free World with Dr. Stephanie Freeman

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Stephanie Freeman who is a Historian serving in the U.S. Department of State. They discuss her latest book: Dreams for a Decade: International Nuclear Abolitionism and the end of the Cold War. Freeman contrasts President Ronald Reagan's strand of nuclear abolitionism with that of the international antinuclear movement. Filled with fresh insights, Freeman's book reminds us why arms control was and remains an important feature of international security.

The Year That Broke Politics with Dr. Luke Nichter

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

On this inaugural episode of Rendezvous With History, Reagan Institute Director of Scholarly Initiatives Dr. Anthony Eames sits down with Dr. Luke Nichter who is a professor of History and the James H. Cavanaugh Endowed Chair in Presidential Studies at Chapman University. They discuss his latest book, The Year that Broke Politics. Named one of the top books of 2023 by the Wall Street Journal. Nichter shows 1968 to be a pivotal year in American politics, but not for the reasons we’ve come to accept. The conventional wisdom of the Republican and Democratic Party rivalry is redrawn to reveal sunrising insights about the cast of presidential candidates in the 1968 election.