Ron Chernow on the History of Polarization of America

The video explores the history of political polarization in the United States, tracing it back to the founding fathers like Jefferson and Hamilton. It highlights the intense rivalries and insults exchanged among early political figures and discusses George Washington's eventual alignment with the Federalists. The discussion then shifts to the pre-Civil War era, marked by physical violence in Congress, and draws parallels to modern political polarization. The video concludes by examining regional and party divides, emphasizing the increasing separation between urban and rural political bases.

What does the term 'basket of deplorables' refer to in the context of political discourse?

What were some of the extreme measures taken by politicians in Congress during the 1830s to 1850s?

What existential threats to democracy are mentioned in the context of current political polarization?

How have the political bases of the Republican and Democratic parties shifted over time?