Beyond Patriots vs. Loyalists: The Global American Revolution with Dr. Richard Bell
Civics & Coffee: A History Podcast
12/27/25
•35m
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Was the American Revolution really just a colonial rebellion against Britain? According to historian Dr. Richard Bell, the answer is no.
In this episode, we discuss Bell’s book The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, which reframes the Revolution as a global, transnational conflict with consequences stretching far beyond North America—from Spain and the Caribbean to Indigenous nations and British India.
Bell challenges familiar myths about the Revolution, including the simplistic portrayal of King George III as a tyrant, the mythologizing of the Battle of Trenton, and the idea that the conflict was merely Patriots vs. Loyalists. We explore how propaganda and a vibrant revolutionary press shaped public opinion, how Indigenous peoples acted as crucial political and military players, and why Spain’s role in undermining British power has been largely forgotten.
This conversation shows why challenging national myths is essential to understanding what the American Revolution really was—and why it mattered to the wider world.
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With Her Own Hands: Dr. Nicole Nehrig on Women, Work, and the Meaning of Making
December 20, 2025
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Join me as I sit down with Dr. Nicole Nehrig to discuss her book With Her Own Hands: Women Weaving Their Stories which explores the historical and psychological significance of textiles and knitting. She emphasizes the critical role of textiles in human survival, community building among women, and the economic participation of women throughout history. Our conversation also touches on the connections between textile work and witchcraft accusations, the impact of influential figures like Elizabeth Zimmerman, and the storytelling potential of textiles. Dr. Nehrig also shares her personal journey with knitting and the insights gained from her research, encouraging listeners and readers to reflect on the meaning and fulfillment derived from their own work.
You can find Dr. Nehrig on Instagram at: Nicolenehrig or through her website at: https://nicolenehrig.com
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