Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen -
story in the public square

History, as a subject of study, is more than a linear progression of events. It is ideas, currents of thought, institutions of learning, social movements, moral awakenings and more. In a brief, new book, Jennifer Ratner-Rosenhagen traces the history of ideas that shaped the United States from its beginnings.

Duration: 27 minutes and 20 seconds

Episode Number: 405

About Story in the Public Square:

Story in the Public Square is a weekly, public affairs show designed to study, celebrate, and tell stories that matter.

The show is inspired by the power of stories to shape public understanding of important issues.

For example, Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," shined a crucial light on the violence and inhumanity of American slavery, fueled the abolition movement, and inspired Abraham Lincoln, upon meeting the author, to say "So you're the little woman who wrote the book that made this great war." Narrative is no less important today-though the vehicles for dissemination are much more diverse.

From a great novel to a film, a song, or even a Tweet, stories still very much impact the way the American public looks at issues.

Our show turns a critical eye to these stories and their tellers.

Visit the Story in the Public Squar... web site

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