Backlash

The American story is a story of progress. We’re taught that as time moves forward–and movements for civil rights come and go–America gets better, and better, and better.

But the story isn’t that straightforward. Because often, on the heels of what looks like progress, comes backlash. People in power find ways to return things to the way they were before. These moments prove that progress isn’t linear or inevitable. Our standard narratives about American progress aren’t quite true.

Backlash offers a new narrative. This show unpacks six different backlashes in American history–and uses these stories to come to new understandings of what progress actually is.

Over the course of six episodes, you’ll hear from people who experienced these backlashes firsthand–and still fought to make progress happen. There’s the Black Panthers who were targeted by Ronald Regan’s gun-control bill and forced to stop carrying arms. The activists who are still fighting school segregation in Boston–50 years after the city was overwhelmed by riots against integration. And many more.

In an era where it seems like change is always right around the corner but never quite here, Backlash uses stories from our past to help us understand how to navigate our complicated present.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

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Understanding my power!

I was Leary at first but after listening to the entire book. I was able to understand the author's point of view as I simple listen to the the interviews. while I agree with the anti Black ,Queer, sexist,etc backlash. As a historian I take issue with the over used phase "History repeats itself". Actually, people repeat history as a result of not learning from the past, unfortunately.

illuminating!

I ended each episode with a new view of our history. Well written and presented.

A Robust and Careful History Lesson

Listeners, especially listeners located in an American context, will find their historical acuity deeply strengthened by this work. Backlash seeks to change its audience's relationship to time and reveal how essential it is for structuring our understanding of history. Spanning from the Black Panther's roots to the rise of credit scores and peppered with vibrant and edifying interviews, Backlash reveals that progress is not the inevitable conclusion of freedom struggles. In order to effect lasting change in the future, we must understand the way change is forged and obstructed in the past. A gripping and worthwhile listen!

Stories that matter

I thought I would only listen to an episode here and there in my spare time, but before I knew it, I was three episodes down and couldn't stop. Even though I have lived in this country for over three decades and I'm aware of racism and the treatment of marginalized individuals, I didn't realize how unaware I am of our American history—the backlash of actions taken. I must admit I follow the masses and focus on the headlines, but Backlash tells a different story—the impact on real people. I love the narrator's calm voice as she describes crucial historical events and how they still impact today's society. Looking forward to hearing more from Adesua Agbonile

Narrator

The narrator / author has a very soothing voice. An easy listen and well organized. Looking forward to more work by her.