S8 Ep1008: H.W. Brands describes how in April 1939, Charles Lindbergh returned to the United States as a world-famous celebrity, greeted by "a football team of flashbulbs popping" as he disembarked a transatlantic steamer. Lindbergh had remained in the global spotli

H.W. Brands describes how in April 1939, Charles Lindbergh returned to the United States as a world-famous celebrity, greeted by "a football team of flashbulbs popping" as he disembarked a transatlantic steamer. Lindbergh had remained in the global spotlight since his historic 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic, a feat of technical proficiency and bravery comparable to the moon landing. His return was prompted by the imminent threat of war in Europe, a situation he had observed firsthand while living in England to escape the "paparazzi" following the tragic kidnapping and murder of his infant son. While Lindbergh admired German culture and technical organization, he was puzzled and dismayed by the rise of the Nazi party. He viewed the British as complacent, believing they were clinging to a 19th-century empire while imposing unrealistic peace terms on Germany that they refused to enforce. Lindbergh predicted that if war broke out, Britain would inevitably look to the United States for a "bailout," just as they had during World War I. Upon his arrival in Washington, he was beckoned to meet President Franklin Roosevelt, who sought to co-opt the celebrated aviator into the administration. Roosevelt recognized Lindbergh's deep knowledge of global military aircraft and his massive public following, fearing he would become a powerful voice for neutrality. However, Lindbergh, jealous of his independence and skeptical of Roosevelt's charm, declined the offer, refusing to be "inside the tent" where he could be controlled. (1)1930