158. The American Revolution: Life, Liberty & The Pursuit of Happiness (Ep 3)

This episode of the Empire podcast interviews Professor Maya Jasanoff about her book, *Liberty's Exiles*, focusing on the American Declaration of Independence. The discussion covers the Declaration's creation, its internal contradictions (e.g., the hypocrisy of slave-owning authors espousing equality), and its impact on subsequent independence movements globally. The hosts also discuss the military strategies and key battles of the American Revolution, highlighting the British underestimation of American resolve and the crucial role of French naval support in the victory at Yorktown. A specific example is the story of Henry Knox, a bookseller who transported cannons for a key American victory, leading to Fort Knox being named after him. The episode concludes by emphasizing the Declaration's enduring significance and the ongoing reassessment of its historical context.