The Last Best Hope?

Historian and broadcaster Professor Adam Smith explores the America of today through the lens of the past. Is America - as Abraham Lincoln once claimed - the last best hope of Earth?

Produced by Oxford University’s world-leading Rothermere American Institute, each story-filled episode looks at the US from the outside in – delving into the political events, conflicts, speeches and songs that have shaped and embodied the soul of a nation.

From the bloody battlefields of Gettysburg to fake news and gun control, Professor Smith takes you back in time (and sometimes on location) to uncover fresh insights and commentary from award-winning academics and prominent public figures.

Join us as we ask: what does the US stand for – and what does this mean for us all? 

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Recent Episodes

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Recent Reviews

InfamousLN

Excellent

I found The Last Best Hope through The Rest Is History. The guests are serious scholars, and each episode offers thought-provoking insights into the historical forces that shape modern America.
KiraGould

Consistently intriguing

I love the framing of the podcast and the host and his producers bring interesting voices to the show. I have learned new things about American history from every episode. And every one is well organized and very engaging.
kennewickmike

Great podcast

So glad you are back for a new season
Coleman Carnes

Please continue….

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TheMatrix

Good take

On the Getty battle
clairebounds

Excellent history!

Wonderful view of American history from an academic and outsider point of view. It’s very helpful to see how American history is viewed from this perspective. Some things seem obvious from within the system look very odd from outside it. Brilliant and insightful guests and a thoughtful, knowledgeable, and highly articulate host. Truly wonderful stuff.
W. Greg Webb

Politically Biased

I wanted to like this podcast because it was recommended by the hosts of The Rest is History. But, just a few episodes reveal that Adam Smith and his guests present a politically biased view of America. I would not waste my time.