Unveiling the Tapestry of Early American Print Culture: A Critique of Techno-Optimism with Dr. Michael Baysa

Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we host Michael Baysa, postdoctoral history scholar from Washington University in St. Louis, who meticulously peels back the layers of early American print culture. His compelling narratives bring to light the selective democratization of print and the hidden struggles of figures like Santiago de Puglia in disseminating progressive ideas. Together, we uncover the complex interplay of language, identity, and power that defined the nation's earliest days and echoes into our modern era.

Revelations abound in this episode, as we traverse the influence of religious establishments and linguistic diversity in shaping America's formative years. Michael Beza offers a critical perspective on the advantages Protestant groups held in leveraging printing for their benefit, alongside the restrictive societal undercurrents that curtailed voices like Puglia's. We dissect the role of anti-Catholic sentiment and explore how key figures of American history interacted with and were influenced by multilingual and multicultural dynamics.

We wrap up with a look towards the future, featuring up-and-coming academic Michael Baysa whose insights into the religious history of America's printing press promise to spark fresh academic discourse. Follow his journey at @MichaelBaysa, and stay connected with the evolving conversation on the relationship between religion, culture, and politics. As we close this chapter, we leave you enriched with a deeper appreciation of the nuanced forces that continue to sculpt the narrative of American society.

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Crew:
Host: C. Derick Varn
Intro and Outro Music by Bitter Lake.
Intro Video Design: Jason Myles
Art Design: Corn and C. Derick Varn

Links and Social Media:
twitter: @varnvlog
blue sky: @varnvlog.bsky.social
You can find the additional streams on Youtube