America First

"America — love it or leave it." That's a bumper sticker slogan that sums up the long-standing tension between patriotism and the exercise of constitutional freedoms. As the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday we explore where healthy patriotism ends and toxic nationalism begins? We discuss how "America First" could sometimes lead to a slippery slope towards tyranny.

“America First”— it’s a slogan that has currency with the right-wing today, but they didn’t coin the phrase. That happened back in 1930s America to serve a movement trying to keep the U.S. from getting involved in fighting the Nazis in Europe. We look at this tipping point in American history—and America as a global power—with historian and author H.W. Brands.

Charles Lindbergh became an instant hero when he flew across the Atlantic. But that wasn't his only moment of fame. He also created a hugely popular political movement — the America First Committee.