The Skeptic's Guide to American History

The key elements of a broadened approach; the study of history with this fast-moving examination of the origins of religious and racial tolerance in America; grasping how the assumptions one has held can differ dramatically from historical reality.

Understanding history with a look at efforts of the colonists to defend their rights as Englishmen; the ironic role played by European tyrannies in helping establish the nation that would forever change the definition of liberty.

Gaining a nuanced understanding of what the founders' original intent really is; many of the questions they grapple with divide them for their entire lives; ultimately being bequeathed to their successors and persisting even to this day.

The hagiography that shapes George Washington's image and undertakes a balanced examination; measuring his military and presidential failings against his numerous successes; some of the successes may be his major contributions to American history.

Jefferson and Hamilton hold opposing views on policy and constitutional interpretation; their conflict is often thought of in terms of one's contemporary understanding of liberalism and conservatism; it is relevant in very different ways.

Andrew Jackson's election ushers in an era marked by much democratic reform; ironically, the man who is seen as the symbol of such reform actually opposes much of it; he champions many policies that few today call democratic.