Welcome to U.S. History: 20 Minutes at a Time. This podcast is built for anyone who wants a deeper, more structured understanding of American history, whether you’re preparing for the Advanced Placement U.S. History exam, enrolled in a college survey course, or just brushing up on the events and ideas that shaped the nation.

Each episode runs around twenty minutes, give or take a few, and is designed to hit that sweet spot between depth and accessibility.

Over the course of one hundred episodes, we’ll move from Native North America before 1492 all the way to globalization in the twenty-first century. You’ll hear about politics and wars, but also about the social changes, cultural movements, and economic shifts that made the United States what it is today.

Whether you’re studying for an exam, reviewing for class, or just curious about the country’s story, this series is meant to be a valuable companion. It gives you the big picture, episode by episode, in a way that’s both manageable and enjoyable.

Dive into the vibrant world of Native North America Before 1492 in this episode of U.S. History: 20 Minutes at a Time. Discover the ingenious Inuit of the Arctic, thriving in extreme environments, and the sophisticated Haudenosaunee Confederacy, a model of democratic governance. From the urban marvel of Cahokia to the ecologically savvy practices of California’s tribes, we uncover a continent buzzing with diverse nations, intricate trade networks, and profound spiritual traditions. Tune in to explore a history far richer and more dynamic than you ever imagined!

Step into the heart of the Mississippian World in this episode, where we explore Cahokia, North America’s greatest pre-contact city. With towering mounds, sprawling plazas, and a population rivaling medieval London, Cahokia was a hub of trade, ceremony, and power. Uncover the vibrant culture of the Mississippians, their mastery of maize agriculture, and the intricate rituals that bound their society. Join us to discover a civilization that reshaped the American Midwest long before 1492!