Propaganda was foundational to America's independence, from the direct appeal of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense to the black-propaganda of Benjamin Franklin’s scalp hoax.  Binghamton University Professor of History Robert Parkinson reveals the hidden power of newspapers, pamphlets, and even fake news in shaping independence. The patriots even consolidated early control over sources of news and information creating a strategic weapon that the British struggled to counter—a feature of the revolutionary era that might seem familiar today.  Hosts Jim Ludes and Mark Jacobson also highlight the contemporary vulnerability of authoritarian regimes to information attacks and, relatedly, the cost of killing the Voice of America.

Propaganda was foundational to America's independence, from the direct appeal of Thomas Paine&rsquo;s Common Sense to the black-propaganda of Benjamin Franklin&rsquo;s scalp hoax.&nbsp; Binghamton University Professor of History Robert Parkinson reveals the hidden power of newspapers, pamphlets, and even fake news in shaping independence. The patriots even consolidated early control over sources of news and information creating a strategic weapon that the British struggled to counter&mdash;a feature of the revolutionary era that might seem familiar today.&nbsp; Hosts Jim Ludes and Mark Jacobson also highlight the contemporary vulnerability of authoritarian regimes to information attacks and, relatedly, the cost of killing the Voice of America.

From the Pell Center at Salve Regina University and the creators of the Active Measures Newsletter, a weekly dive into the latest trends in political warfare, influence, and information campaigns. 

From the Pell Center at Salve Regina University and the creators of the Active Measures Newsletter, a weekly dive into the latest trends in political warfare, influence, and information campaigns.

A weekly dive into the headlines in the Active Measures Newsletter from the Pell Center at Salve Regina University.

The Active Measures Newsletter Podcast

In this episode, historian Robert Parkinson explores the role of propaganda, influence, and information in the American Revolution, highlighting how media, strategic messaging, and psychological tactics shaped the fight for independence.