Talking Texas History

We complete our series on documents that made Texas history by looking a  president who was full of contradictions and still could tell the truth at exactly the right moment. Lyndon B. Johnson’s March 15, 1965 address to Congress, “The American Promise,” delivered in the shadow of Selma and months before the Voting Rights Act of 1965 becomes law.If you’ve never read “The American Promise,” click the link below to read the text and watch the video. If you enjoy deep dives into Texas history, civil rights history, and the craft of historical interpretation, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review.LBJ's "The American Promise" at The American Presidency Project: https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/special-message-the-congress-the-american-promise#docmedia

In this episode Scott and Gene wrap up their conversation on the Farmer's Demands.  Farmers wanted company workers to get paid in real money instead of company scrip, stop railroad rebates that favored the rich and powerful of their day, end convict leasing, and force the country to look honestly at wages and living conditions. That sounds like a modern platform, but it’s Texas history and it’s rooted in the 1886 Cleburne meeting of the Farmers Alliances. We pick up the last demands from the Cleburne platform and unpack what they were really aiming at: making American politics answer to working people when corporations and concentrated wealth feel untouchable. Many of these ideas we associate with Progressivism, New Deal liberalism, and a stronger federal role in the economy grow out of this Populist revolt.  If you enjoy smart, grounded conversations about Texas history before and beyond the Alamo, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find us.

In this episode, we look at an 1886 newspaper article that captures a moment when Texas farmers stop grumbling and start drafting demands. From the small town of Cleburne, the Farmers Alliance lays out an early blueprint for American populism, and we use that document to follow rural life in the late nineteenth century. If you like primary sources, Texas political history, or the roots of the People’s Party and the Populist movement, hit play, share the episode with a history friend, and leave a review. What part of the Cleburne platform feels most familiar today?

As we continue our look at important documents in Texas' past, John H. Reagan's letter of 1865: the Civil War was lost, secession was finished, slavery was over, and survival meant embracing a new order. We unpack John H. Reagan’s prison letter—its stark realism, its calls for legal protections for freedpeople, and its blueprint for rebuilding Texas through reconciliation, immigration, and industry—and place it against the charged backdrop of early Reconstruction.If you value history grounded in documents rather than myths, this conversation opens a sharper lens on Reconstruction, Texas history, and the choices made—and refused—after 1865. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves Texas history, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway or question.

Continuing with our series on important documents in Texas history, we take listeners inside the Travis letter and explore how a brief plea from a besieged commander helped turn the Alamo into a powerful legend that still shapes Texas identity and American memory. If you care about Texas history, public memory, or how documents shape nations, this conversation delivers depth without the dust. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves the Alamo—or loves to argue about it—and leave a review telling us what the letter means to you.

A shipwreck on a hostile shore. A handful of survivors. And a narrative that forced an empire to look again. We kick off a new series through the eyes of Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, the first European to leave a detailed account of life among indigenous peoples along the Texas Gulf Coast.This conversation isn’t about polishing heroes or condemning villains; it’s about evidence. We trace how a survivor’s testimony pushed some Spaniards toward empathy and accommodation without erasing conquest, and how contact changed both sides in subtle, enduring ways. If your last Texas history class stopped at seventh grade, this is your invitation to revisit the beginning with sources that restore nuance and humanity.We mention Documents of Texas History. The citation and link are below:Ernest Wallace, David Vigness, & George B. Ward, Documents of Texas History (Austin, TX: Texas State Historical Association)  (https://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth296840/: accessed January 19, 2026), University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History, https://texashistory.unt.edu.For more information, see Donald Chipman's Spanish Texas, 1519–1821 (Austin, TX: University of Texas Press, 2010) Enjoyed the start of this series? Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves history, and leave a review with the one moment that challenged what you thought you knew.

Season four opens with a road trip through the strange side of Texas—equal parts folklore, architecture, and outsized personality. We start where rumor meets headline.If you love Texas history with edge, folklore with purpose, and characters who complicate the line between rumor and record, this one’s for you. Tap play, subscribe for part two of our Texas weird tour, and share your favorite legend or oddity with us—what story does your corner of Texas refuse to let go?

During the Feast of the Assumption on August 15, 1988, thousands gathered for an outdoor Mass in Lubbock where many reported seeing miraculous signs when the clouds parted and sunlight broke through. The apparition of the Virgin Mary drew 15,000 people to this West Texas church, yet it's a largely forgotten moment in Texas religious history.In this episode, we discuss  how the Catholic Church responds to claims of apparitions, establishing investigative commissions that examined the Lubbock event, and our conversation expands into why religious history matters for historians, "You can't understand American history if you don't understand Americans' religiosity." Whether you're fascinated by religious phenomena, Texas cultural history, or the methods historians use to understand seemingly supernatural events, this episode offers a window into how faith and skepticism coexist in both religious institutions and historical inquiry.

The Battle of San Jacinto might be the most consequential 18 minutes in Texas history that hardly anyone talks about. While the Alamo casts a long shadow over Texas history, it's San Jacinto that actually secured Texas independence and set in motion events that would reshape North America forever.Join Gene and Scott as they examine why this pivotal battle deserves to take its rightful place in our understanding of how modern Texas emerged from the battle we call "the first armed action of Manifest Destiny."  The ripple effects of San Jacinto would ultimately help reshape the course of not just Texas, but American history itself.

In this episode, we talk with George Cooper, who founded the Texas New Deal Symposium. George explains how a small historical gathering has evolved into a vital 12-year tradition examining one of America's most transformative periods bringing together diverse scholars exploring everything from banking reforms to infrastructure projects that still shape Texas communities today. The engine of modern American government was built during the 1930s, and Texans were holding the wrenches. This year's  Texas New Deal Symposium will be held at Tarleton State University in Stephenville on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The Symposium will take place at the Joe W. Autry Agriculture Building in Room 113. This year's event at Tarleton State University features presentations on contemporary preservation efforts for New Deal infrastructure, healthcare for freedmen as documented in WPA slave narratives, and Nazi hunting during the later New Deal years—demonstrating the era's remarkable breadth of influence.  The event is free of charge and lunch will be provided; however, registration is required.For registration information, click on the East Texas Historical Association events page: https://etha.wildapricot.org/event-6164675

Ever wondered what really happens when Catholic cardinals gather to elect a new pope? In this  episode, we continue our conversation with canon lawyer Benedict Nguyen of the University of St. Thomas in Houston.The timing couldn't be more perfect—recorded during the recent papal conclave, our conversation explores the fascinating tension between Hollywood portrayals (like the trending film "Conclave") and the authentic spiritual process. Nguyen  distinguishes between procedural accuracy and the deeper theological substance that drives papal succession, offering  insights into what happens behind those famous locked doors.Of course, we tackle the burning question many Americans wonder: Could a cardinal with Texas ties like Kevin Farrell or Daniel DiNardo ever become pope? The answer proves more complex than you might expect, as we discuss the geopolitical considerations, historical precedents, and surprising unpredictability of conclaves throughout history.Whether you're fascinated by religious history, political processes, or simply curious about one of the world's oldest continuing institutions, this episode offers intellectual stimulation and surprising insights. Subscribe now and join our exploration of where Texas connects to pivotal moments in world history.For more information, see Papal Death & Conclave Presented by Benedict Nguyen on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/live/xvKdoO867W0?si=RCvS_kwycUi--LhS

The passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2023 set in motion ancient protocols refined over two millennia of Catholic Church history. For the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide—including approximately 40% of Texans—this moment represents a pivotal transition guided by traditions few outside the faith fully understand. Religion is an important part of culture and history for many Texans, yet often overlooked by historians.We're joined by Benedict Nguyen, a canon lawyer and Associate Vice President at St. Thomas University in Houston, who expertly guides us through the intricate process of papal succession. Whether you're Catholic, belong to another faith tradition, or simply appreciate the historical significance of religious institutions, this episode offers valuable insights into the governance structures that have profoundly shaped Western civilization and continue to influence our cultural landscape today.For more information, see Papal Death & Conclave Presented by Benedict Nguyen on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/live/xvKdoO867W0?si=RCvS_kwycUi--LhS

From department stores to frontier towns, the Jewish experience in Texas reveals a fascinating but often overlooked dimension of the state's cultural landscape. In this conversation with Dr. Bryan E. Stone, professor at Del Mar College and author of The Chosen Folks: Jews on the Frontiers of Texas, we'll learn about Jewish Texans as an often overlooked story.Despite their small numbers, Jewish Texans wielded remarkable influence, Stone's explains that Jews are a "quintessential frontier people". His observations offers a fresh perspective on their experience as cultural navigators who defined themselves against majority cultures while building bridges between different worlds. This conversation fills a crucial gap in Texas historiography while reminding us that history isn't merely an academic subject but the living context that shapes our everyday lives. Listen now to discover this hidden dimension of Texas heritage that challenges conventional understandings of the Lone Star State.

Part 2 of our  conversation with Joe Lansdale, an award-winning author and screenwriter, as he unpacks the influences of East Texas history on his storytelling. Lansdale shares insights on writing for screen adaptations and reflects on the evolution of characters across various mediums, all while urging listeners to remember past lessons as they weave their personal narratives.

Award-winning author and storyteller Joe Lansdale -- screenwriter (Bubba Ho-Tep) and novelist (Hap and Leonard series), discusses his East Texas roots and eclectic influences in our latest episode. Joe discuss growing up, and his life and literary influences. This episode offers a rich tapestry of narratives that are both personal and universal. Tune in to hear Joe reflect the art of storytelling, and how his Texas roots have helped shape Joe's distinctive voice in the literary world. 

We hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving! As we recover, we're continuing our discussion on podcasting.  Our podcast platform AI suggested the topic for this episode be "Overcoming Perfectionism in Podcasting." That's not an inaccurate description! Join us as we share our own podcasting mishaps and triumphs and the lessons we learned that underscore the importance of progress over perfection.

What does it take to start your own podcast? We're pulling back the curtain in the third season of Talking Texas History to share our own rollercoaster ride of surprises and successes in the world of podcasting. Whether it's picking your unique niche or understanding the magic connection between podcasting and traditional radio, we're here to light the path for aspiring podcasters eager to leave their mark in the vast podcasting world.

In this episode, Gene and Scott get ready to hear students interview the esteemed former State Historian of Texas, Bill O'Neal. A noted storyteller, Bill shares his lifelong passion for Texas history and talks about Texas symbols. Tune in for engaging anecdotes about Texas traditions and gain a renewed appreciation for the symbols that shape the Lone Star State.

Charles Waite, who teaches Texas History at UT-RGV, joins Gene and Scott to survey the fascinating landscape of teaching Texas history, academia, and personal anecdotes. Our conversation is steeped in nostalgia, as we reminisce about our shared experiences at Texas State University - San Marcos (Southwest Texas State) left an indelible mark on our academic journeys.Our conversation with Chuck demonstrates the trials and triumphs of pursuing an academic career. Together, we discuss the evolving challenges of the academic job market and the dedication required to thrive in such a competitive environment. As Chuck recounts his path to becoming a history professor, we explore the influences of mentors and teaching styles that shaped his approach to education, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity in teaching Texas history along the dynamic Texas-Mexico border.

Join us on Talking Texas History as we sit down with Whitney Blankenship. Whitney takes us through her career in history education. We delve into the differences between teaching in public schools and universities, tackling important issues like the complexities of teaching civil rights history and the impact of technology on education.See her book, Teaching the Struggle for Civil Rights, 1948–1976, Peter Lang, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Teaching-Struggle-19481976-Critical-American-ebook/dp/B07J6ST5HT?ref_=ast_author_dpAlso, visit the website for more information: https://www.civilrightsteaching.org/

How have hurricanes shaped the history, culture, and political landscape of Texas? Join us as we continue the discussion on the profound effects  these powerful storms have had on the Lone Star State.

How have hurricanes shaped the history, culture, and political landscape of Texas? Join us on this episode of Talking Texas History as we unravel the profound effects  these powerful storms had on the history of the Lone Star State. This a must-listen episode for anyone interested in starting to understanding the multifaceted impact of weather on Texas.

Discover the untold stories and harsh realities of Texas history in our captivating conversation with John Lundberg, a history professor at Tarrant County College. From  a Civil War reenactor to his book on Granbury’s Texas Brigade, John explains what he's learned about plantation life and slavery in Texas in his recent book, The Texas Low Country: Slavery and Freedom on the Gulf Coast 1822 to 1895, and sheds light on this critical yet underexplored aspects of Texas history. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that  enriches our understanding of Texas's past.John R. Lundberg, The Texas Lowcountry: Slavery and Freedom on the Gulf Coast, 1822–1895 (College Station: Texas A&M University Press , 2024) https://www.tamupress.com/book/9781648431753/the-texas-lowcountry/Also at Amazon: https://a.co/d/j0jo0h1

 Join us in this episode of Talking Texas History as we sit down with Gary Pinkerton. Discover the historical importance of Trammell's Trace, and get a sneak peek into Gary's upcoming projects. He also talks about the Alliance for Texas History, a new organization focused on preserving and promoting Texas history. Stay tuned for updates on Gary's latest book ventures!Learn more about Gary and his publications at his website: https://garylpinkerton.com/

Can geographic history reveal the secrets of Texas' booming oil industry? This episode of Talking Texas History welcomes Helen Cozart, assistant librarian at Ranger College, who shares her captivating journey from military service to academia. Helen enlightens us on the transformative Ranger oil boom of 1917, illustrating the massive impact it had on the region's landscape and infrastructure.  Helen breaks down the process behind the Ranger College Library exhibit, "Black Gold, a History of Texas Boomtowns." Learn about the technological advancements and environmental challenges of the early oil industry and how the infamous Ranger oil boom set the stage for future developments. More information on the Ranger College Library exhibit: https://library.rangercollege.edu/oilexhibit

Scott and Gene talk with Misty Lanham, a dedicated public historian at Texas's most iconic monument. Misty  sheds light on tales often lost in the shadows of the Alamo's grand narrative. She takes us behind the scenes on the painstaking efforts to protect the Alamo and reveals the ambitious projects underway. This episode is a tribute to the unsung heroes of historical conservation, as Misty shares the complexities and triumphs of curating an authentic experience for visitors from all corners of the world.The Alamo's Website: https://www.thealamo.org/

In this episode, we'll talk with Brennan Rivas, PhD, for a deep dive into the complex tapestry of Texas gun regulation. Our conversation navigates the shifting sands of the right to bear arms and delivers a fresh perspective on how Texans—from cowboys to lawmakers—have grappled with the balance of freedom and control when it comes to firearms in public life. She examines the historical context of Texas gun laws against the backdrop of the Civil War and Reconstruction, dismantling the myths that they served racial bias and instead, spotlighting their role in fostering a society of decorum. 

Gene and Scott talk with Bill Flores, a political science professor who has put together a pioneering Texas government textbook that focuses on student involvement. As we dissect the evolving political landscape of Texas, Bill's insights into the burgeoning Latino vote shine a light on the potential for seismic shifts in state politics as a newly empowered generation gets ready to leave their indelible mark on history.The Texas Experiment: Politics, Power, and Social Transformation (Sage, 2023) https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/the-texas-experiment/book276276

Christena Stephens joins Scott and Gene to dissect the enduring mystery of the unsolved 1943 Littlefield murders with her book Bound in Silence: An Unsolved Murder in a Small Texas Town (Texas A&M Press, 2024). Join us as we discuss the dark narrative of Dr. Roy and Mae Hunt's brutal killing, a crime that shattered the peace of their small West Texas town. Bound in Silence: An Unsolved Murder in a Small Texas Town https://www.tamupress.com/book/9798987900208/bound-in-silence/

In this episode, we'll peel back the layers of a decades-old murder mystery with author Alan Burton, as he shares his journey penning Fatal Exam: Solving Lubbock's Greatest Murder Mystery with Lubbock criminal defense attorney Chuck Lanehart. It's a true crime saga that continues to haunt Texas Tech University.  His narrative weaves through the tale's eerie connections to a university tradition, as well as the intricate process of chronicling a story that's as chilling today as it was in 1967.Alan Burton & Chuck Lanehart, Fatal Exam: Solving Lubbock's Greatest Murder Mystery (Lubbock, TX: Texas Tech University Press, 2023).  TTU Press site: https://www.ttupress.org/9781682831885/fatal-exam/Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Fatal-Exam-Solving-Lubbocks-Greatest/dp/1682831876

In this episode, co-host Scott Sosebee gives us an intimate look at the Mallet Ranch, a beacon of the South Plains' history. His latest work, More Than Running Cattle: The Mallet Ranch of the South Plains (TTU Press 2023), weaves a narrative that's as vast as the Texas horizon, detailing the DeVitt family's trials and triumphs on their storied ranch.  Scott's publication is a tapestry of ranching life, enriched by Wyman Meinzer's striking photographs. Find a copy of Scott's books he discusses on this episode at Amazon:More Than Running Cattle: The Mallet Ranch of the South Plains https://a.co/d/1GA0bgnHenry C. "Hank" Smith and the Cross B Ranch: The First Stock Operation on the South Plains https://a.co/d/hRwdqr0

Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Fred Allison, a West Texas native and  Marine Corps veteran. From his formative years on a cotton farm to his adventures as a radar intercept officer, Fred's tale intertwines the threads of academia, military service, and personal discovery. This episode is a treasure trove as we explore Fred's unwavering passion for history, his work as a historian for the Marine Corps and his commitment to honoring the valiant stories of those who served. We talk about his latest work, My Darling Boys: A Family at War, 1941-1947 (UNT Press, 2023), where he explores his family's wartime experiences during World War II. Get a copy of Fred's book, My Darling Boys at Amazon https://a.co/d/67Bw4JY

It's the beginning of a New Year! In this episode,  we continue our journey through the rich tapestry of Texas history, guided by our book recommendations. From the Texas Revolution to Modern Texas, we reveal diverse perspectives that shaped this state. Join us as share notable books that cover important figures like Sam Houston and explore the development of West Texas. Hop on this riveting ride as we talk about books that will expand your knowledge about the Lone Star State. You won't be disappointed!

It's the holiday season, and nothing makes a better gift for the Texas History lover than a good book!  In the spirit of holiday gift-giving, we share our favorite books, including our top picks. There are many great books, but this is a good place to start. This episode is your gateway to a treasure trove of Texas history, so buckle up and join our journey through books on Texas history!

Gene and Scott continue their discussion about planning their university/college level Texas history courses. They break down their unique methodologies for teaching Texas history, comparing and contrasting their approaches.  We don't promise all the answers (. . . or any, for that matter!), but we do guarantee a deep dive exploration of what goes into teaching the history of the Lone Star State. Don't miss out!If you missed part 1, here's a link, you can link to it direct at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2030352/episodes/13882637

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on teaching a college-level Texas history course. Texas history is more than what happened between the Red and Rio Grade rivers. So, join us as we unearth overlooked aspects of Texas history and reveal how the state's narrative is part of a broader regional, national, and even global story. We're keen to create a past that resonates with our increasingly diverse student body, including overlooked aspects of the 20th century  so we can craft a story that truly represents us all.

Critical Race Theory has been the topic of debates and political tirades among Texas - and national -  politicians and school boards, but what exactly is CRT? Join Gene and Scott as we learn about CRT from Dr. Vida Robertson, Director of the Center for Critical Race Studies at the University of Houston-Downtown, as he helps strip away common misconceptions and provides us with an explanation of CRT. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to challenge your perceptions.

Join us for a captivating journey into the heart of Texas history with none other than Ken Kesselus, local historian, former mayor, and minister. With his wealth of knowledge, he takes us back in time, revealing the intriguing origins of Bastrop. Ken's engaging storytelling keeps us hooked as we traverse the intriguing paths of the past.We'll focus on the 75th anniversary of the Delgado vs. Bastrop case. Ken discusses the importance of recognizing and celebrating this local landmark case. This episode isn't just about revisiting the past, it's about understanding our roots and celebrating our shared history. So, join us, and let's keep the stories of our past alive together.See Ken's books on Amazon:John E. Hines: Granite on Fire https://a.co/d/2zghZcCAlvin Wirtz: The Senator, LBJ, and LCRA https://a.co/d/8UjhJ6u

Hear the captivating journey of Ray Valdez as he talks with us about the era of Mexican-American activism and the Chicano Movement.  Ray discusses efforts to preserve the LULAC Council 60 Clubhouse in Houston. He explains the challenges and highlights of historic preservation, and celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month with an exhibit at Houston's Heritage Society Museum marking the 60th anniversary of JFK's visit to Houston, a significant moment in Mexican-American history. For more information, see: C60, Inc. https://council60clubhouse.com/The National Trust for Historic Preservation's website on the LULAC Clubhouse https://savingplaces.org/places/lulac

We're kicking off a new season of Talking Texas History with a bang! Our first guest is the impressive Rachel Gunter.  In this digital age, the use of social media platforms is almost inevitable, and Rachel has made a significant contribution to history and teaching using social media to explore history and debunk myths. Her work is a testament to the potential of these platforms as educational tools. We think you'll enjoy hearing about Rachel’s insights and experiences as much as we did. Tune in and join us for the journey!Find Rachel on social media:@phdrachelFacebook: RachelMichelle Website: https://rmgunter.com/

Join us as we journey to Stephen F. Austin's colonial headquarters with Texas Historical Commission site manager for the San Felipe de Austin Historic Site, Bryan MCauley. Bryan takes us on a personal journey through his experiences and shares insights from his unique and informative perspective on the rich history of Texas and the importance of preserving our past. So, tune in to our latest episode to uncover Texas’s rich history, the role of public history in preserving it with Bryan McAuley.Learn more about San Felipe de Austin Historic Site at https://www.thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/san-felipe-de-austin

Imagine growing up with the rich history of West Texas as your playground. Stories of pioneers, cowboys, and oilmen shaping not only the land but also your own destiny. That’s exactly what happened with our guest for today, Mary Nicholson-Pruice, a medical historian and sixth-generation Texan. We laugh as she shares a hilarious anecdote about a student getting lost in the trees during her teaching days in Bass Drop. Mary’s childhood stories and West Texas tales are not just entertaining, but also shed light on the unique history of the region and its influence on her career choice. Transitioning from medical history to Texas history may seem like a leap, but Mary handles it with aplomb. She gives us a peek into the Handbook of Texas Medicine project of the Texas State Historical Association, where she is actively involved. Disasters are her current research fascination, specifically trauma medicine, emergency responses, and the history of safety and memory. She poses an interesting question during our conversation: what qualifies a situation as a disaster? It's a thought-provoking topic that will make you view disasters in a new light.Our conversation doesn't stop at just identifying disasters. We delve into the odd phenomenon of people gathering to witness disasters. Mary captivates us with stories from the Texas City disaster of 1947 to the Brownfield explosion of 1958. We also discuss the silver lining that disasters can bring about, like the 1937 New London explosion leading to laws requiring gas to be odorized. We wrap up with the importance of understanding the impact of a disaster on a community, the lessons we can learn, and how technology can help prevent similar disasters in the future. So, join us and let's explore the captivating stories of Texas history together.

Hey there, movie buffs! Stick with us as we dissect what we think might be the worst movies about the Lone Star State! See if you agree with our take on Texas cinema offenders.  Prepare for some good, old critique of Hollywood's botched attempt to capture the essence of Texas. So, grab your popcorn and join our quest for better portrayal of the Lone Star State in cinema.

What do A Trip to Bountiful, No Country for Old Men, and The Last Picture Show all have in common? They're just a few of the iconic Texas films we're discussing in this episode. Join us as we explore our favorite movies that capture the essence of Texas life and the unforgettable characters and landscapes that make these films so memorable.From the captivating West Texas depictions in the works of the Coen Brothers and Tommy Lee Jones to the emotional journey of Geraldine Page's character in A Trip to Bountiful, we delve into the various themes and experiences that these Texas movies encompass. We also discuss the violence and grittiness found in Cormac McCarthy's books and their film adaptations, as well as the controversial yet iconic The Searchers, which showcases both the beauty and the brutality of Texas life.Grab some popcorn and check out these classic films, as they offer a fascinating glimpse into the heart and soul of Texas. So sit back, relax, and let's talk Texas movies!

Can films truly capture the essence of history and spark meaningful conversations? Join us as we talk with Gordon Williams, a talented filmmaker who recently received a congressional commendation for his work in telling Black history in Beaumont, Texas. We discuss how documentaries can artfully blend education and entertainment, while also fostering deep, emotional connections with audiences.Watch the trailer of Gordon's film, They Will Talk About Us: The Charlton-Pollard Story on YouTube https://youtu.be/xLt1EKnuL34?si=1oIh1BFm-9Jjh4uXA short film, The Example, is available on Amazon Prime https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B076H9FDK4/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

Scott and Gene visit with Galveston local historian Joe Pellerin about hurricanes, the Emancipation Proclamation, cemeteries, and the Houston Astros!

Gene and Scott talk with Texas Tech University Archivist Lynn Whitfield about selecting and writing 100 Years, 100 Voices (Texas Tech University Press, 2022), commemorating the 100th anniversary of Texas Tech University. Cisco College Professor John Caraway - host of the Cisco Compass podcast-- and Midwestern State University Professor Leland Turner sit in on the conversation.100 Years, 100 Voices at Texas Tech University Press https://www.ttupress.org/9781682831557/100-years-100-voices/Texas Tech 100th Anniversary webpage https://100.ttu.edu/ 

Gene and  Scott talk with the host of the Cisco Compass podcast, John Caraway. They discuss Abilene, Texas, and how John started his podcast. Listen to the Cisco Compass on Buzzsprout https://www.buzzsprout.com/2078480

Gene and Scott talk with José María Herrera, director of publications with the Texas Council for the Social Studies (TXCSS), about assisting social studies teachers with content and preparing pre-service teachers for the classroom.The TXCSS is an affiliate of the National Council for the Social Studies.Learn more about the Texas Council for the Social Studies at https://www.txcss.net/Contact Dr.  Herrera at [email protected]

In this episode, Scott and Gene conclude their discussion on modern Texas history booksIn part I, we discuss the following books: Gregg Cantrell, Feeding the Wolf: John B. Rayner and the Politics of Race, 1850 - 1918 ( New York: Wiley - Blackwell, 2002) https://a.co/d/eRVqMQxGeorge N. Green, The Establishment in Texas Politics: The Primitive Years, 1938 - 1957 (Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1984) https://a.co/d/171ZG9fWilliam Owens, This Stubborn Soil: A Frontier Boyhood (New York: Scribners, 1966, currently out of print) https://a.co/d/9V6AYkeH. G. Bissinger, Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, and a Dream (Philadelphia: Da Capo Press, 2015) https://a.co/d/cjybgIg