Ep 15. Woodrow Wilson and the Rating of Presidents

The Skeptic's Guide to American History is a show that explores various events, people, and ideas in American history, challenging traditional narratives and presenting alternative perspectives. Season 1 episode 15 is titled "Woodrow Wilson and the Rating of Presidents". In this episode, host Rebecca Onion discusses the legacy of President Woodrow Wilson and how he has been regarded by historians and the general public over time.

Wilson was a complex figure who achieved significant accomplishments during his time as president, including the creation of the Federal Reserve, the establishment of the League of Nations, and the passage of important legislation such as the Clayton Antitrust Act and the Federal Trade Commission Act. However, he was also known for his support of racist policies and his administration's suppression of civil liberties during World War I.

Onion explores how Wilson's presidency has been evaluated by historians and the public over time, noting how early "heroic" narratives of Wilson's presidency gave way to critiques of his racist policies and undemocratic actions. She also explains how the practice of rating presidents has evolved over time, from early efforts by political scientists like Arthur Schlesinger to more recent approaches that take into account broader social and cultural trends.

Throughout the episode, Onion engages with a variety of primary and secondary sources, including contemporary newspaper articles, historical essays, and rankings of presidential performance. She also incorporates interviews with historians and scholars who offer additional insights and perspectives on Wilson's presidency and the larger questions of how we evaluate and remember American presidents.

Overall, "Woodrow Wilson and the Rating of Presidents" is a thought-provoking exploration of a complex figure in American history, and the challenges of evaluating presidential legacies over time. It encourages viewers to question assumptions and biases in our understanding of the past, and to consider the ways in which historical narratives can shape our present-day perspectives and debates.