Ep 22. Myths about American Wars

The Skeptic's Guide to American History is an informative and engaging show that aims to debunk myths and misconceptions about history. In season 1 episode 22, titled "Myths about American Wars," the hosts take on some of the most prevalent myths about America's involvement in conflicts throughout history.

The episode starts by exploring the notion that America has always been a peace-loving nation and that war is a last resort. The hosts dissect this idea, examining America's involvement in numerous conflicts, both domestic and international, throughout its history. They talk about the different motives behind each of these conflicts, what sparked them, and what their aftermath was. They also discuss how the American media has portrayed these wars and how that has influenced public perception.

Moving on to specific wars, the hosts tackle some of the most pervasive myths about them. For example, they shed light on the idea that the Civil War was fought solely over states' rights and not about slavery. They present evidence to the contrary, including the fact that the Confederate states seceded because they wanted to defend and expand slavery. The hosts also discuss how the myth of the "Lost Cause" has been perpetuated, influencing how people view the outcome of the war.

Another myth that the show tackles is the idea that America won World War II single-handedly. The hosts highlight the fact that the war was a global effort, involving numerous countries, and that America's contribution was just one part of a much larger effort. They also discuss how this myth has been used to bolster American exceptionalism and how it has influenced foreign policy decisions in the post-war era.

The show also explores myths about more recent conflicts, such as the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. For example, they address the myth that soldiers returning from Vietnam were spat on and called baby killers by anti-war protesters. They present evidence that this is largely untrue and that returning soldiers were often treated with indifference rather than hostility. They also discuss how myths surrounding the Gulf War have been used to justify subsequent military interventions in the Middle East.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide a wealth of information and perspective, challenging commonly held beliefs and opening up new avenues for discussion. They also provide a nuanced and thoughtful look at the complexity of America's involvement in wars throughout its history, highlighting the many factors that have influenced the country's decisions.

Overall, this episode is a fascinating and informative look at some of the most entrenched myths and misconceptions surrounding American wars. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about history and the ways in which it shapes our understanding of the present.