Ep 12. Patriots and Presidents
- February 20, 2017
In season 5 episode 12 of America: Facts vs. Fiction, titled Patriots and Presidents, viewers are taken on a journey through the history of America's presidential elections and the role that patriotism has played in the process. The episode explores the idea of who is a true American patriot and how that concept has evolved over time.
The episode begins by examining the first presidential election between George Washington and John Adams. It discusses the importance of the concept of patriotism and how it was used to sway voters towards Washington, who was seen as the more patriotic candidate. The episode then goes on to discuss how subsequent elections featured candidates who portrayed themselves as patriotic, often by touting their military service or their support for American values.
The episode also delves into the darker side of American patriotism, including the use of propaganda during World War I and the Red Scare of the 1950s, which resulted in a wave of anti-communist hysteria across the country. Viewers will learn how these events shaped the way that Americans view patriotism and how politicians continue to use patriotic rhetoric to sway voters.
Throughout the episode, viewers will also learn about some lesser-known facts about the presidents. For example, did you know that John F. Kennedy was a collector of war mementos or that Teddy Roosevelt once got into a fistfight during a presidential campaign? The show uncovers these little-known stories and provides context for how they fit into the larger narrative of American presidential history.
As with previous episodes of America: Facts vs. Fiction, the show uses a mix of archival footage, expert interviews, and reenactments to bring the history to life. Viewers will see actors portraying historical figures, hear from historians and political experts, and gain a deeper understanding of how the American presidency has evolved over time.
Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the stories behind America's most famous presidents, Patriots and Presidents is a fascinating look at the intersection of politics and patriotism in the United States.
