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Of The People

By: Ben Bradford
Narrated by: Ben Bradford
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Political Science United States
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Episodes
  • Trailer

    Trailer
    Nov 4 2021
    In 1968, the Democratic Party fractured. Anti-Vietnam War protesters clashed with police outside of the Democratic National Convention Hall in Chicago. Tear gas seeped into the hotel where candidates were staying. Party bosses handed pro-war Vice President Hubert Humphrey - who had not won a single primary - the nomination. It was also the moment that sparked a freshman Senator from South Dakota to launch his own bid for the presidency, one that four years later would reshape the American political landscape. Of The People is the story of the longshot, insurgent campaign of George McGovern in 1972. It transformed the American political parties and ushered in our age of division. McGovern is remembered as one of history's great political losers after his landslide defeat to Richard Nixon. But before that, was an incredible "heist" of the Democratic nomination - a tale of assassination, betrayal, last-minute comebacks, political sabotage, and parliamentary procedure. And it speaks to our most pressing political question: How have we grown so polarized?
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    2 mins
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  • Episode 1: 1968

    Episode 1: 1968
    Nov 4 2021
    The Democratic Party breaks apart over the Vietnam War. Amid a police riot, the largely unknown Senator George McGovern replaces the slain Robert Kennedy as a presidential candidate.
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    40 mins
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  • Episode 2: Long Shot

    Episode 2: Long Shot
    Nov 4 2021
    Democratic Party leaders look to regain the goodwill of their antiwar voters by appointing George McGovern to write new rules for choosing candidates. McGovern uses the rules to launch a long shot presidential bid.
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    33 mins
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About the Creator and Performer

An award-winning public radio reporter with an inside perspective into the nation’s political system, Ben is the creator, producer, and host of the Audible Original podcast series Of The People. Before learning he preferred journalism, Ben spent two years as a press secretary for a senior member of Congress. He left to attend Columbia Journalism School, and then covered politics in both a red state — North Carolina — and blue California, where dozens of public radio stations relied on his statehouse reporting. His work has aired on NPR, the BBC, and Bloomberg Radio, as well as in newspapers around the country. Most recently, Ben reported for the iconic business program, Marketplace. He's won a national Edward R. Murrow award for his political coverage and numerous regional awards.

What listeners say about Of The People

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I thought I knew...

I lived through this period of our history and thought I knew and understood what went on. OF THE PEOPLE explains the events and people in such a way that, for the first time, all the pieces fit together. This podcast shows the very real connection to the political craziness that is going on today and points out the dangers that once again confront our democracy. Essential listening.

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blown away

as a 50 year old and this all happening before or just as I was bit. it was incredible to learn about this time! definitely not what they are teaching in public school.

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Excellent presentation

This was a well-done examination of McGovern's presidential campaign. The series covered many people and events that effected the results of his run using taped speeches from the 1960s and 1970s and present-day statements from some of his supporters that kept me listening to episode after episode. Hopefully, Ben will create more podcasts possibly covering other politicians.

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Outstanding!

Wow! What a powerful and compelling account of such an important part of our lives. Bradford does a superb job of using his own voice and the voice of those who lived these realities to help us understand this turning point in American politics. The sounds of war, the sounds of the mostly peaceful demonstrations and the Chicago police response at the 1968 democratic convention and the background music all led our minds to a chilling connection to political violence today and especially the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol. Can hardly wait to listen to the next segment.

Jim & Bernie Purcell

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Extremely well done and gripping podcast

I don't usually love podcasts about politics, but "Of The People" was different. I binge-listened over 2 days and felt like I learned a ton more about past politics but also about the current political system in this country. Illuminating and gripping. Also loved the music!

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This is a fascinating, well told story!

I flew through this podcast. It is clearly well researched and there were so many aspects of of these elections and the associated stakeholders that I had no idea about. Very relevant and interesting to see the impact on the politics of today.

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Hooked after one episode!

"Of the People" is just what I need right now: a smart, deep, important history lesson and a "can't stop listening" story all in one. I love the the archival audio, the music in the background and transitions, the feeling of being there that Ben's storytelling creates. I'm sharing this with everyone I know!!

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Don't Miss This!

This is a fabulous podcast. Fascinating and very relevant subject. Compelling storytelling that is dramatic without being over the top. The writing is extraordinary and the music adds depth and atmosphere. Great listening. I can't wait for the next set of episodes!

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Profile Image for Susan C

Riveting

Riveting, binge-worthy storytelling about the Shakespearean drama that was McGovern’s Presidential campaign and its effects on today’s politics. If you have even a minor interest in politics, history or current events, you will love this podcast. It is informative, insightful, and so entertaining! The marvelous background music enhances the storytelling and is enjoyable in its own right. Beyond enjoying the podcast, I gained so much knowledge and insight about the current state of political affairs. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

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Very well put together!

A well done, interesting and mildly foreboding analysis about the beginnings of our modern party system. Ben uses contemporary audio and interviews to weave an engaging story out of what was always presented to me in history classes as a dry list of dates and people.

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