Semiquincentennial Special: Lessons From 250 Years of American History

In this special episode of The Virginia Press Room celebrating America's 250th birthday,  Michael Pope is joined by: Dr. Jatia Wrighten of VCU, discussing the complex relationships that marginalized groups have to the symbolic power of July 4th. Dr. Cayce Myers of Virginia Tech, discussing the importance of broadsides as mass media during the age of the American Revolution.  Dr. Richard Bell of the University of Maryland, discussing the global legacy of American independence. Plus Virginia and Maryland's convict labor, Marcus Garvey's "Back to Africa" movement, and the evolving meaning of the phrase "all men are created equal." -- The Virginia Press Room is a weekly podcast that brings listeners the latest insights and analysis on Virginia’s most important stories directly from the journalists covering them. Produced in collaboration by VPM and the Virginia Public Access Project, the series is hosted by journalist and author, Michael Pope and features a rotating cast of reporters from the Virginia press corps.The Virginia Press Room offers a behind-the-scenes look at state politics, policy and the issues shaping communities across the commonwealth from the people who know it best, helping listeners stay informed about what’s happening in their state from the halls of the Capitol to their local neighborhoods.